Christians under Kakindo Church of Uganda in Ibanda District have appealed to the North West Ankole Diocesan Bishop, Amos Magezi, to intervene in a growing dispute over a proposed parish transfer.
The disagreement stems from plans to move Kakindo Church of Uganda from All Saints Parish to Kemihoko Parish, both under the North West Ankole Diocese.
The proposal has sparked concern among a section of congregants, who argue that the process lacks transparency and broader consultation.
During a meeting held on Monday in Kakindo 2, Kakinga Ward, Ishongororo Town Council, worshippers voiced dissatisfaction with the planned changes, saying the decision does not reflect the views of the majority.
“We are not against the church, but this decision was made without consulting us. As members, we deserve to be heard before such major changes are implemented,” one congregant said.
Another member said the church community had longstanding ties to its current structure and questioned the rationale behind the shift.
“We have a long history with Kakinga Parish and later All Saints Church of Uganda. Being moved again to Kemihoko Parish is something we do not agree with,” the member said.
According to those present, only a small fraction of congregants—estimated at about four percent—is backing the transfer, while the majority remain opposed.
Church leaders at the meeting also raised concerns about alleged intimidation following resistance to the move. Some claimed that security personnel had been deployed in the area, creating fear among worshippers.
“After expressing our concerns, we started seeing armed police around. This has created fear among believers, and some now feel unsafe even coming for prayers,” one church leader alleged.
Despite the tensions, congregants said they would continue attending services while calling for calm and dialogue.
“We shall continue to worship, but we call upon Bishop Magezi to come and listen to us and resolve this matter before it escalates,” another member said.
They further noted that although the transfer was reportedly initiated last year, many members were neither formally informed nor consulted, a situation they say has deepened mistrust and divisions within the church.
Efforts to obtain a comment from diocesan authorities were unsuccessful by press time.
