President Yoweri Museveni meeting religious leaders
Government should reconsider its decision banning religious gatherings as a measure to contain the spread of coronavirus, a section of MPs have said.
The lawmakers argue that sin has increased within society which calls for spiritual nourishment to rescue the souls.
Monicah Amoding (Kumi Woman), who led the call during today’s plenary sitting, said places of worship play a fundamental role in nurturing society in terms of spiritual nourishment on a daily basis.
“Sin has increased in our society, many people who are dying now, many people who die without spiritual safety. The church played a very important role in praying corona out of Uganda,” She said, adding: “We are going for uncertain elections, the country needs prayers. The churches need to be opened, allow people to pray and intercede for our lives.”
Amoding was backed by Mitooma Woman MP, Jovah Kamateka who wondered why Uganda still insists on closing places of worship yet there are nations that have opened up the churches and mosques with Standard Operating Procedures.
“Domestic violence has increased in our homes because there is no spiritual guidance,” she said.
Speaker Rebecca Kadaga also weighed into the debate informing Government that it is possible to open up places of worship and let them conduct their affairs under strict guidelines.
However, First Deputy Prime Minister, Moses Ali defended the continued closure of Churches and mosques saying it is aimed at containing the spread of coronavirus in Uganda and save lives of Uganda, saying although the decision is unpopular and hurting some people, it is necessary to keep religious places open.
Kadaga fired back saying that all what MPs want is for Government to reconsider its decision again because the religious leaders have bombarded them and Parliament with the same pleas.
