(Kampala)
27 December 2007
Geresom Musamali
A Church of Uganda bishop has asked Christians to join him in his crusade against the death penalty.
The Kampala Diocese assistant bishop, Dr. Zac Niringiye, said he recently met John Katuramu on death row in Luzira Prison and became convinced that people can reform.
Katuramu, the former Toro prime minister, was in 2004 convicted by the Supreme Court for the murder of Toro Prince Charles Kijjanangoma.
“Katuramu now has joy, peace, love and faith because he has been redeemed by Jesus Christ,” said Niringiye while delivering the Christmas summons at All Saints Church, Nakasero.
“He told me that he may physically be living in Luzira but at heart, he is a free man”.
Niringiye said he had also met a female convicted murderer who is now a preacher in the prison.
“There are over 500 convicts on death row. I have interacted with them and seen how they have been transformed. Such people should be given a chance to live a new life.”
Niringiye invited the emeritus bishop of Mukono, Dr. Michael Ssenyimba, to join the campaign, calling him his mentor.
He also announced that this was the last Christmas service to be held at All Saints Church in its present form.
Niringiye said early next year, the church building would be demolished to pave way for the construction of the Kampala Diocese headquarters.
So far, sh280m out of the required sh400m for the foundation, has been raised through pledges and cash donations, he explained.
He urged Christians to come forward and generously contribute towards the project. Over sh1.2b is needed for the project.
While construction goes on, church functions will be held in tents on a neighbouring plot.
