The election of Rev. Michael Okwii Eskan as the New Bishop of Kumi Diocese has generated mixed feelings in the diocese.
Rev. Okwii was announced the second Bishop of Kumi Diocese by the House of Bishops on Wednesday. The diocese was split between the Rev. Charles Okunya Oode whose election as the second bishop was canceled in 2019 and the caretaker Bishop, Charles Odurkami, who was appointed by the Archbishop, The Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Kazimba Mugalu.
A section of Christians has since held protests in the diocese leading to arrests of both the lay and clergy. Just moments before the announcement of the new bishop, the court in Kumi granted bail to 23 people following protests that rocked the Diocese.
When the news about Rev. Okwii’s appointment spread, at St. Thomas and St. Luke churches in Bukedea district, some Christians offered praises to God.
Joseph Alibosit, a prayer leader at St. Luke CoU in Bukedea says that his prayers have been answered. Alibosit said that only prayers can heal and bring sanity back to Kumi Diocese.
Mary Margret Akio, a Christian at St. Mathew CoU in Bukedea district says that for two years, Christians in Kumi Diocese have been living like orphans without a substantive bishop.
But in Kumi town, John Osele, an Anglican says he cannot celebrate because the appointment will again drag the diocese into chaos again.
Rev. George Olaboro of Kelim Parish called for unity among the Christians of Kumi Diocese to help the ministry in the diocese. Rev. Olaboro said that it is important to respect and pray for leaders to enable their leadership success.
According to the program released by the Provincial Secretary of the Church of Uganda, Rev. Can. Capt. William Ongeng, the new bishop of Kumi will be consecrated and enthroned on March 6, 2022, at St. Phillips Cathedral, Ngora district.
