A Catholic priest at Namugongo Martyrs Shrine, Rev. Fr Charles Maria Kiberu, has criticised former Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among over remarks attributed to her comparing President Yoweri Museveni to God the Father and Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba to Jesus Christ.
Kiberu made the comments while celebrating Sunday Mass at Namugongo Martyrs Shrine on October 18, 2026. During his sermon, he referred to the biblical teaching in Matthew 22:21 and Mark 12:17, which calls on people to give Caesar what belongs to Caesar and God what belongs to God.
The priest argued that although citizens have responsibilities towards their country and its leaders, political figures should not be elevated to the position of God. He emphasised that religious devotion belongs to God rather than powerful individuals whose political fortunes can change.
Turning his attention to Among, Kiberu questioned what had happened to the former Speaker following the reported remarks. “Where is she now? She was used and dumped,” he said, suggesting that political loyalty does not necessarily guarantee lasting influence or protection.
Kiberu also used his sermon to question whether Ugandans receive adequate public services in return for the taxes they pay. He challenged leaders to consider the relationship between citizens’ financial contributions and the quality of services available to them.
The priest further warned against allowing wealth and political power to become objects of worship. He said the pursuit of money and influence could distract people from their spiritual responsibilities and the values that should guide their lives.
Beyond politics, Kiberu criticised religious leaders whom he accused of placing excessive emphasis on collecting money from struggling believers. He urged clergy to prioritise the spiritual and social welfare of their congregations rather than making financial demands on people facing economic difficulties.
The priest also prayed for prisoners, including people he described as political prisoners, and condemned abductions, torture and other forms of suffering. He called on religious leaders to speak out in defence of justice, human dignity and the rights of Ugandans, insisting that faith should encourage compassion and accountability rather than unquestioning loyalty to political power.
