Rukungiri Pastor Arrested Over Alleged Assault of Church Secretary.

A pastor in Rukungiri District has been arrested following allegations of assaulting a church secretary during a financial dispute. Felix Ayebare, the pastor of Kyarusongyera Anointed Church in Bwanga Parish, is accused of assaulting Joan Byomuhangi, the church secretary, after a disagreement over money collected from worshippers. The incident reportedly took place on August 30 at about 2 pm at the church.

According to police reports, the altercation began when Ayebare allegedly took money from a collection basket before it had been counted, leading to a confrontation with Byomuhangi. During the incident, Ayebare is accused of physically assaulting Byomuhangi and damaging her mobile phone by throwing it to the ground, resulting in cracks on both the front and back of the device. Police also allege that Ayebare had previously accused Byomuhangi of hindering his access to church funds and had threatened her.

Kigezi Regional Police spokesperson, SP Nelson Tumushime, stated in a release dated September 4 that Ayebare was arrested and is currently in custody as investigations continue. The police have emphasized that religious leaders must not misuse their positions to engage in violence or criminal activities. Tumushime reiterated that freedom of worship does not extend to acts of assault, fraud, or extortion, warning that those found guilty of such actions will face arrest and prosecution under Ugandan law.

This case underscores the importance of accountability and justice within religious communities. As Proverbs 31:8-9 calls for speaking up for those who cannot speak for themselves, it is crucial for institutions to protect the vulnerable and ensure that justice prevails. The police’s commitment to investigating and prosecuting such allegations reflects a broader societal responsibility to uphold the values of truth and mercy, as emphasized in Micah 6:8.

Source: Read the original report