national 1 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Bishop Urges Restraint After Abim Church Brawl
The Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of North Karamoja has called for respect between religious and local leaders following a physical altercation that occurred inside a church in Abim District. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/bishop-warns-leaders-against-confrontation-after-abim-church-brawl-5616282
A recent clash between a clergyman and a local council chairperson inside All Saints Church in Abim Town Council has prompted a strong call for decorum from the Anglican Bishop of North Karamoja, Simon Akol Aisu.
The incident, which reportedly involved punches and biting, occurred when the local leader, Innocent Oyoo (LC2 chairperson of Waimer Ward), was allegedly denied a chance to address the congregation by Rev. Canon Richard Ongom. The topic of discussion was said to be security and the distribution of mosquito nets.
Bishop Aisu, in a pastoral letter, emphasized the need to respect the sanctity of the church and urged both public leaders and the clergy to maintain self-control, wisdom, and humility, especially when faced with provocation.
He stressed that such confrontations are not condoned and that leaders’ conduct should reflect Christian teachings. The Bishop quoted Proverbs 15:1, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger,” as a guiding principle.
The Diocese plans to take administrative and pastoral action while safeguarding the church’s dignity and respecting lawful leadership. The police have also initiated an inquiry into the matter.
Bishop Aisu appealed to Christians, the public, and the media to avoid circulating inflammatory messages that could damage reputations before the situation is properly handled. He called for dialogue and reconciliation, urging all parties to refrain from retaliation and further confrontation. The Bishop reiterated that while the church respects secular authority, it expects public leaders to respect the sanctity of worship and the church’s independence in conducting its services.