Clergy have a critical role in Uganda's politics

By Rev. Fr. Fred Jenga

I have always found Kintu Nyago’s articles sober and a logical analysis of political issues.The same goes for David Mafabi on a number of occasions.

However,Kintu Nyago’s last article (Clergy should get off politics) was diversionary. Premisedon the tired Biblical argument (quoted out of context as always) that clergy should‘give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belongs to God,’ Kintu suggestedthat we should restrict ourselves to baptising, pronouncing blessings, castingout demons and limit our advice to prayer!

Ugandais still a young democracy and everyone’s participation in the democratic processis important. Issues of good governance cannot become a preserve of only a few.

Ugandabelongs to all of us. Whenever politicians mess up a country, it is the clergy whoare burdened with cleaning up the mess by treating the sick, providing food,education, and helping people put their lives back together.

Politicaldecisions not only affect politicians, they affect every one.

Thevoices that seek to silence the clergy confirm the paradoxical functioning ofthe mind of active politicians. Invoking select historical mistakes of misinformedand, at times, ill-willed clergy to silence the clergy, deflects objectiveattention to issues being raised.

TheBible and history are replete with examples of clergy who have played significantroles in their political contexts.

Whereas Jesus Christ’s mission on earth wasspiritual, he could not extricate himself from politics; no wonder the accusationsthat sent him to the Cross included a political one: “He claims he is King ofthe Jews”! Many clergymen in contemporary times have played remarkable roles inthe political contexts of their countries.

Thecontribution of the Clergy to the success of the 2011 general election isneither ignoble.

Individuals,organisations, political parties and the Government appealed to the Clergy to educatetheir members and pray for the success of the polls.

Since independence, Clergy in several African countries have been outspoken ontopical national issues.

However,the clergy should never actively engage in partisan elective politics or holdcivil office. TheCatholic Church’s Canon Law is very clear on this.

The writer is the director, Holy Cross Family Ministries East Africa