Archbishop of Church of Uganda Responds to Archbishop of Canterbury's Letter.

 

In response to a public letter from Archbishop Justin Welby, the Primate of All England, the Most Rev Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, has issued a statement clarifying the Church's position on the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023.

Archbishop Kaziimba acknowledges Archbishop Welby's right to form opinions on global matters, even if he lacks firsthand knowledge. However, he disagrees with the Archbishop's recent statement regarding the Church of Uganda's support for the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023, which has been widely endorsed by the Church.

The Archbishop emphasizes that the Act does not criminalize homosexuality, as it was already prohibited by the colonial-era penal code. He clarifies that the Act reaffirms existing laws and penalties, including the maximum sentence of the death penalty for aggravated homosexuality, which the Church of Uganda opposed.

Furthermore, he highlights that even if the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023 were overturned, homosexuality would still remain criminalized in Uganda, as it is in many countries worldwide. The Act's novelty lies in explicitly outlawing the promotion of homosexuality and same-sex relationships as an alternative to the Church's understanding of marriage.

The Archbishop questions whether Archbishop Welby has advocated for decriminalizing homosexuality in other regions, such as the Arabian Peninsula and the Middle East. He raises concerns about singling out African countries like Ghana and Uganda for criticism while other regions face similar issues.

Referring to the Kigali Commitment of Gafcon IV in April 2023, Archbishop Kaziimba expresses disappointment, along with leaders representing 85% of the Anglican Communion, in their inability to recognize Archbishop Welby as an Instrument of Communion. He states that the Church of England's actions have strained its relationship with orthodox provinces in the Communion, but the Church of Uganda continues to pray for repentance among its leaders.

The statement from the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda aims to provide clarity on the Church's stance while expressing discontent with the Archbishop of Canterbury's position and the Church of England's actions.