President Yoweri Museveni has vowed to address the ongoing controversy over the registration of new modern churches as non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Uganda.
Speaking at the Universal Church Mega Youth Crusade organized by Prophet David Isanga of the Universal Apostolic Fellowship Church of Righteousness in Kaliro, Museveni stressed that churches should be recognised as religious institutions and not NGOs.
Museveni’s comments came in response to growing concerns from religious leaders and communities who argue that the current requirement for churches to register as NGOs undermines religious autonomy.
Many argue that this classification exposes churches to unnecessary government scrutiny and limits their ability to operate freely as places of worship.
“We will address the issue of registering new churches as NGOs on a regular basis. “Churches are churches, not NGOs,” Museveni declared, assuring the religious community that the government would take steps to rectify the situation.
The president’s pledge was welcomed by many church leaders, who see it as an important step in safeguarding the integrity and independence of Uganda’s religious institutions.
However, it remains to be seen how the government will implement the changes to the registration process and what impact this will have on the relationship between the state and religious organizations.
The development is part of a broader debate in Uganda about the role of religion in society and the appropriate level of government intervention in religious affairs.
As the country continues to work out these complex issues, Museveni’s efforts to resolve the registration dilemma have the potential to ease tensions and create a more supportive environment for religious expression.
