Kumi bishop warns new ministers against self-enrichment

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The Anglican Bishop of Kumi Diocese, Michael Okwii Esakhan, has cautioned newly appointed cabinet ministers against using public office for personal enrichment.

Following the announcement of the new cabinet on May 26, 2026, Bishop Esakhan urged the appointees to serve Ugandans with integrity, humility and accountability.

The bishop, who oversees Anglican churches in Ngora, Kumi and Bukedea districts, made the remarks in a statement issued on May 27, 2026.

His comments come at a time when former Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among is facing allegations of corruption, money laundering and abuse of office.

“Indeed, public office must never become a platform for self-enrichment, but an altar of sacrifice for the common good,” Bishop Esakhan said.

In his message to the newly appointed ministers, the prelate called for faithful, selfless and accountable leadership.

“Beloved distinguished leaders, as you embark on your newly assigned duties, we make a clarion call to all leaders to decisively reject corruption and abuse of office, tribalism and sectarianism, nepotism and favouritism,” he said.

Bishop Esakhan also commended President Yoweri Museveni for ensuring regional representation in the cabinet, but urged the ministers not to betray the trust placed in them.

“As you therefore assume your respective offices, we encourage you to embrace servant leadership marked by humility, transparency, integrity, patriotism, diligence, accountability, and fear of God,” he added.

The bishop further appealed to the ministers, who are yet to be vetted by Parliament’s Appointments Committee, chaired by the Speaker of Parliament, to prioritise service delivery and key sectors affecting ordinary Ugandans.

He specifically called for improved healthcare services, better roads, quality education, job creation for the youth and improved infrastructure across the country.

“We urge the new Cabinet and all leaders to work tirelessly and collaboratively for the flourishing of every Ugandan and for connecting all East Africans regardless of tribe, religion, political affiliation, gender, or social status, without marginalising anyone,” he said.

Bishop Esakhan noted that the newly appointed ministers have a crucial role to play in helping Uganda achieve its middle-income aspirations and advancing the East African political integration agenda.