Church of Uganda has noted with concern a misleading report published by a local News blog Mk Newslink under the headline: “Double Tragedy: Bishop Johnson to be taken to Court on Another Case of Schools.” The widely circulated article on social media published by a one Wilber Muhwezi Kasibante (MK) on 2nd September 2025, misrepresents facts and risks confusing the public. We therefore clarify as follows:

1. On School Management Committees

For Church of Uganda–founded, Government-aided schools, the Education policy is clear:

* Church of Uganda nominates six members, including the Chairperson, and submits these names to the District.

* The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) or District Education Officer (DEO) then formally appoints the School Management Committee (SMC).

All Church of Uganda assets, including schools, are held in trust by the Registered Trustees of the Church of Uganda. In this capacity, the Bishops are the Registered Trustees and therefore act legally and canonically when they nominate SMC members. The Bishop’s involvement is thus not a personal preference, but a mandate and responsibility exercised on behalf of the Church of Uganda.

These schools remain Church-founded and Government-aided, not Government-confiscated institutions, and their governance reflects this partnership.

2. On Katikamwe Forest Land

The Diocesan Council of West Ankole Diocese resolved to utilize Katikamwe Forest land for sustainable income generation in line with the Church’s vision of self-reliance. The process follows established governance structures:

* The Diocesan Council initiates and recommends.

* The Synod considers and approves.

* The Provincial Board of Trustees makes the final decision.

This ensures accountability and transparency. The decision is not a personal action of the Bishop but a resolution of the Diocese, subject to Synod and Provincial oversight.

3. On Misrepresentation and Reckless Reporting

The framing of these developments as “double tragedies” is not only misleading but also reckless reporting that undermines public trust and the integrity of institutions. Such sensationalism sows confusion among the faithful and tarnishes the image of the Church without regard for facts. Church of Uganda strongly condemns such reckless reporting and urges the media to uphold professional ethics, accuracy, and fairness.

4. Commitment to Good Governance

Church of Uganda remains committed to transparency, accountability, and stewardship of its assets in partnership with Government and communities we Minister to.

We commend Bishop Johnson Twinomujuni and the Diocesan Council of West Ankole Diocese for adhering to the right processes and procedures in handling both schools and Church land.