Bishop Moses Banja of Namirembe Diocese has endorsed the directive from Electoral Commission (EC) chairperson, Simon Byabakama, urging churches to reject donations from politicians during this election period.
During a press conference at Namirembe Cathedral, Banja said such contributions are often intended to influence voters. Bishop Banja’s statement follows Byabakama’s remarks to journalists this week, where he accused politicians of using donations to organizations and churches as a pretext for vote-buying.
Byabakama emphasized that the EC will take action against anyone found engaging in vote-buying, provided credible evidence is presented.
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“I strongly support chairperson Byabakama’s directive to stop politicians from funding or donating to church projects during election periods, as this constitutes a direct bribe to voters. Christians should vote only for qualified and eligible candidates,” Banja said.
He cautioned that many politicians make donations to churches despite lacking the qualifications to lead, using such acts to gain favour.
Bishop Banja stressed that churches should not allow politicians to use their pulpits for political campaigning or vote solicitation. At the press conference, Banja announced that Namirembe Diocese will hold a mass wedding for 50 couples on September 19, 2025.
According to Bishop Banja, this initiative aims to promote holy matrimony and provide an opportunity for couples who cannot afford lavish wedding ceremonies. The selected couples come from various regions, including Ssese Island
