Uganda’s government intends to follow Kenya’s lead in demanding the registration of so-called FBOs (Faith-Based Organisations), a plan strongly contested by various Christian denominations.
“If what we are doing is good, then why should we be registered? Why should a faith that has been in existence for centuries need an operation license?” Mgr. John Baptist Kauta, Secretary General of the Uganda Episcopal Conference, asked, describing the government initiative as “suspicious”.
Mgr. Kauta said that scrutiny was required to uncover the government’s real intentions.
Bishop Macleord Baker Ochola, member of the Acholi Religious Leaders Peace Initiative (ARLPI) in Uganda, said he wondered how a 30-year-old government could regulate religions that have been in existence for centuries.
“Why should a child tell a father how to lead a family? We have been here for decades. What is the logic behind registering well known religions?” he said.
But Rev. Canon Aaron Mwesigye, director of religious affairs in the President’s Office, said the policy would increase collaboration between the government and FBOs, helping the government to deal with religious disputes and corruption.
Source: Fides
