Masindi Kitara Diocese clergy dismiss tribal claims against Bishop-Elect Kugonza
“Even politicians never gain 100% support, but the minority usually choose to cooperate with the majority.”
Masindi: Clergy from the Masindi-Kitara Diocese have come out to clarify and dismiss tribal-based allegations surrounding their recently elected bishop, Rt. Rev. Joshua Kugonza, affirming his Munyoro heritage amid growing speculation.
The clarification was made during the burial ceremony of the late Nancy Rwampwanyi recently in Kihande 1 Cell, Central Division, Masindi Municipality, where hundreds had gathered.
Rev. Canon Lydia Kwesiga, Dean of Masindi-Kitara Diocese, addressed the crowd, stating that Bishop-elect Kugonza’s lineage confirms his identity as a Munyoro.
“His father is called Isingoma, a typical Runyoro name,” Rev. Canon Kwesiga explained. “Because he is humble and polite, some people fail to recognize him as a Munyoro. But I ask aren’t the Baruli part of the Banyoro? Who then is a genuine Munyoro?”
She called for unity and urged the Banyoro to love one another and work together for development rather than be divided by ethnicity.
Bishop-elect Kugonza acknowledged the ongoing rumors but noted that his team had anticipated resistance and responded with prayer. “Nothing comes on a silver plate,” Kugonza said. “Even politicians never gain 100% support, but the minority usually choose to cooperate with the majority.”
He urged Christians to avoid tribal divisions, emphasizing that all people are God’s creation. “Let’s work together to serve God. Our differences should not divide the Church,” he said.
Rev. Kugonza was elected on March 30, 2025, at Zebra Hotel in Masaka City, becoming the third Bishop of Masindi-Kitara Diocese under the Church of Uganda. However, his election sparked mixed reactions among some Christians in the diocese, with a section questioning his tribal identity.
He is set to be consecrated and enthroned on August 3, 2025, succeeding Rt. Rev. George William Kasangaki, who will retire after nine years of service. Bishop Kasangaki succeeded the diocese’s founding bishop, Rt. Rev. Stanley Ntagali, who later became the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda.
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