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KABALE - Anne Mbitse, the wife of Godfrey Mbitse, the Bishop of Muhabura Diocese, has delivered a stern warning to Ugandan politicians against exploiting Biblical scriptures to deceive the public and further their agendas. (Photo by Job Namanya)

This was during the climax of the 2024 Brethren Conference for the Diocese of Kigezi held at the Convention site on Rugarama Hill in Kabale Municipality. 

She emphasised the importance of sincerity and ethical conduct, asserting that some politicians have intentionally aligned themselves with Biblical and Christian principles to manipulate public sentiment. 

"Politicians must refrain from misusing sacred texts for their gain. The Bible should not be wielded as a tool for deception and personal interests," declared Mbitse. 

The conference, which commenced on Thursday, January 11, revolved around the theme "Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God," derived from Romans 12:2. 

Bishop Gaddie Akanjuna of the Diocese of Kigezi explained that the gathering aimed to foster the transformation of Christians as they entered the New Year. 

Bishop Amos Magezi of Northwest Ankole Diocese, the main preacher at the conference, used the platform to rally parents to instil proper Christian values in their children, emphasizing that such values would lead to receiving blessings from God. 

Attendees of the conference expressed satisfaction with the impactful messages. 

"Attending this conference was a spiritual recharge. Bishop Magezi's call for parents to instil Christian values in their children hit home; it is a reminder of our responsibility to shape the next generation," said Billy Mutabazi, one of the participants. 

According to Alex Muhwezi, another attendee, the conference shed light on the importance of staying true to their faith and not letting it be manipulated for personal gain. 

“It is a wake-up call for both politicians and the public to uphold the sanctity of our beliefs," expressed Muhwezi. 

The Brethren Conference, an annual gathering of Christians in the Diocese of Kigezi, is held every January to facilitate believers in reconnecting with God and renewing their faith for the new year.