Pentecostal churches vow to fight new regulations

ALAN MWESIGWA Following government's proposal to regulate activities of Pentecostal Churches, a section of pastors have come out and said they will not follow the new rules.

Under the proposed rules, pastors will be expected to have a degree in theology before they can run a church.

According to the chairperson of the umbrella body that brings together the pastors, Bishop Joseph Lwere, government did not consult them on the new proposals.

"How did they arrive at the proposals because we were not consulted. If it was out of good faith they would have consulted us," he said.

He said the new regulations have scared most pastors up country and some are already being intimidated by security personnel.

“We have received reports from Kibaale that one of our pastor was attacked by the Giso threatening him that his church will be closed soon, but that church is registered and known. Why put our people on pressure?" Lwere asked.

Bishop Godfrey Luwagga said that some people are looking at their churches as a threat but they will fight on.