The church and the state relationship seems to be getting sour. During the festive season, various religious leaders criticised the passing of the age limit bill and urged President Museveni not to sign the bill into law.
However, the state maintains church leaders ought to keep out of politics.
While attending prayers to mark the beginning of the New year at Rubindi Catholic Church in Kashaari, Mbarara, Museveni applauded the leadership of the Catholic church in the parish for being foresighted.
The president then hit back at those he whom he stated are interfering with politics saying; “I respect clergy whose teaching is line with that of Jesus that emphasises honesty as opposed to hypocrisy. We should also preach forgiveness because Jesus even forgave those who crucified him.”
According to the president, religious leaders commend for promoting religious unity and tolerance that has nurtured harmony and development in their respective areas.
“All religious leaders should join the Government in fighting household poverty. A laity that’s economically empowered will be in a position to support religious institutions and pay tax to government, easing the work of these institutions.”