The Church of Uganda is investigating a confrontation between a priest and a congregant during a Sunday service at All Saints Church of Uganda in Abim, North Karamoja Diocese.
A video of the incident has circulated widely on social media, showing retired priest Rev. Canon Richard Ongom, who is serving the diocese on contract, arguing with a congregant identified as Innocent Oyoo before the disagreement turns physical.
The Church said it was concerned about the incident but was still establishing what led to the confrontation.
Balaam Muheebwa, the Acting Provincial Secretary of the Church of Uganda, said the matter had been referred to the appropriate Church structures for investigation.
He said administrative and pastoral action would be taken once the circumstances surrounding the incident had been established.
The incident reportedly happened towards the end of the service during announcements.
According to Abim District Police Commander SP Moses Olang, Oyoo, a LC 2 chairperson in Abim, attempted to make an announcement without first informing the priest presiding over the service.
The Church of Uganda said announcements and other activities during a service are expected to be conducted under the direction of the priest in charge.
Church communications officer Adams Sadiiki said anyone wishing to make an announcement during a service should first seek permission from the presiding priest and follow the direction given.
He said this is in line with the Church’s established liturgical procedures under Faith and Order.
Police have also started investigating the incident after receiving complaints from both Ongom and Oyoo.
Sadiiki said police had recorded statements from the two parties and some witnesses and issued each party with a Police Form 3 (PF3).
No arrests had been made by the time of the statement.
The Church of Uganda has called for calm as both its structures and the police work to establish what happened and determine the appropriate action.
