Two priests in Uganda’s Nebbi Catholic Diocese have been suspended from clerical duties pending investigations into alleged misconduct, church officials have confirmed.
The Bishop of Nebbi Diocese, Rt Rev Constantine Rupiny, made the announcement on Saturday, 2 August, during an ordination ceremony held at the diocesan ceremonial grounds. The event marked Bishop Rupiny’s first ordination since taking office in February 2025.
The priests—Rev Fr Salvatore Adraba and Rev Fr George Angala—are barred from performing any priestly functions both within and outside the diocese as inquiries into their conduct continue.
“Their suspension is in accordance with Church law,” Bishop Rupiny told the congregation during the ordination of eight new priests and six deacons.
Speaking at the same ceremony, the Bishop called on the newly ordained clergy to uphold their spiritual calling by living lives of integrity and doctrinal faithfulness. He urged them to confront societal ills such as corruption and avoid turning church services into spectacles.
“Preach truthfully and stay away from corrupt practices. Christians look up to priests who are honest and morally upright,” he said.
Bishop Rupiny also cautioned against insubordination within the clergy, warning that priests must not become sources of division or public scandal.
“It is shameful for a priest to be involved in confrontations with the very people they are meant to serve,” he added.
Rev Fr Emmanuel Ocokuru, the pastoral coordinator of the diocese, used the occasion to highlight the role of families in nurturing future vocations. He encouraged parents to guide their children in spiritual matters, suggesting that strong faith foundations in the home can lead to callings in the priesthood.
“Raising children in God-fearing ways is worth celebrating,” Fr Ocokuru said. “When a child becomes a priest, it reflects the faith and commitment of the family.”
Echoing the same message, Sam Okaba, head of the laity in Nebbi Diocese, reminded the faithful that priesthood is a divine calling, not merely a profession.
“Priests are meant to serve communities selflessly. This mission starts with prayerful families and devoted parenting,” he said.
The suspension of the two priests comes as the Catholic Church in Uganda continues to advocate for discipline, accountability, and the spiritual renewal of its clergy and laity alike.
Also Read: Amama Mbabazi’s Daughter Wanted Over Unpaid Shs 450m Loan
