Makerere’s St.Francis Chapel in Chaos Over ‘Rogue’ Worship

By Our Reporter

Kampala – Tension is boiling over at Makerere University, where St. Francis Chapel has been plunged into controversy amid explosive allegations of doctrinal drift, leadership wrangles, and governance lapses.

Worshippers at the once-unifying campus chapel are now divided, accusing the current leadership of abandoning long-standing Anglican traditions in favor of what they describe as “unfamiliar and unsettling” changes to worship style, including music and dress code.

At the center of the storm is Chaplain Rev. Dr. Lydia Kitayimbwa, who succeeded Rev. Onesmus Asiimwe—now Bishop of North Kigezi. Sources within the congregation claim her leadership has sparked deep divisions, with some members openly questioning the direction of the chapel.

Frustrated congregants say they have petitioned the Church of Uganda hierarchy, including Archbishop Stephen Kazimba Mugalu, seeking intervention. However, they allege their concerns have not been addressed, prompting calls for urgent action to restore what they term “biblical and Anglican order.”

Insiders further allege a wave of dismissals and resignations since the new leadership took charge. Departments reportedly affected include communication, audio-visual, youth ministry, worship and arts, and administration.

Questions are also being raised over the reported removal of senior clergy Rev. Irene Akankwasa from family ministry, with her replacement, Ord. Sam Kisaakye, coming under scrutiny from sections of the congregation.

Long-standing church practices appear to have been disrupted. Traditionally, clergy transitions are publicly announced and marked, but sources claim this was not the case for Rev. Fenny Muhweezi, fueling speculation of internal disagreements. Concerns have also emerged over staff recognition practices, with allegations of favoritism and inconsistency.

The controversy has now spilled into governance issues. Congregants are questioning the alleged appointment of a non-staff student, Priscilla Kabasaigi, to act as chapel secretary during a staff absence—raising concerns over access to confidential information.

Members warn that such actions could breach Uganda’s Data Protection and Privacy Act (2019), exposing the institution to legal and reputational risks.

Adding to the turmoil are complaints about unauthorized photography during services. Worshippers claim their images are being taken and shared without consent, sometimes even outside official church activities. Critics argue this undermines privacy, disrupts worship, and erodes trust within the congregation.

As the dispute intensifies, the future direction of St. Francis Chapel hangs in the balance. We shall keep you posted on the latest development as they may arise.