Religious leaders want corruption-free 2013

By Juliet Lukwago

Religious leaders in Uganda have appealed to the Government and all Ugandans to make 2013 a year free of corruption.

Christian and Muslim religious leaders who spoke to Sunday Vision highlighted corruption as one of Uganda’s leading problems.

The Catholic Archbishop of Kampala, Dr. Cyprian Kizito Lwanga, said corruption denies citizens their rights and entitlements.

“I shall never get tired of condemning corruption through which our country is losing billions every year. I continue to appeal to the conscience of our leaders and the public to do all we can to uproot this evil from our midst,” he said.

Lwanga also called for peace, reconciliation, mutual respect, justice and forgiveness among Ugandans.

The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Stanley Ntagali, asked political leaders to do everything in their power to curb corruption. He called upon Ugandans to repent and join efforts to fight corruption.

He also urged Christians to seek God’s guidance in their social, economic and political routines so as to avoid problems, adding that corruption is just a symptom of the social evils that are deep-rooted in Uganda.

Archbishop Ntagali also asked the Government to continually address citizens’ concerns to ensure peace and harmony in the country. He noted that many people have given up hope and faith in God, due to the existing social ills.

Sheikh Nuuhu Muzaata Batte, a key leader in the Kibuli-based Muslim faction, said Ugandans should return to God to avoid evils like corruption and child sacrifice. He added that political leaders should respect the rights of citizens and be exemplary in their behaviour.

“Forgetting all past deeds and entering into New Year gives you hope and confidence for a fresh start,” he said.

Pastor John Kakembo of the Seven’s Day Adventist Church in Uganda decried selfishness and urged MPs to fight on against corruption.

“I pray for a better Uganda come 2013 so that we avoid corruption in all corners,” he said.

Pastor Martin Ssempa called upon Ugandans to shun corruption, witchcraft, sexual immorality, greed and selfishness. He commended the Government for the steps taken so far in fighting corruption, but called for more efforts.

“Corruption in this country means one Ugandan is stealing from another Ugandan. We are doing these things to ourselves,” he said.

He added: “I encourage all of us to turn to Jesus.”