Muhoozi Proposes Arrest of ‘Fake Pastors’, Calls for Theology Degree Requirement

By Skika Reporter

Muhoozi Kainerugaba has proposed sweeping measures targeting what he described as “fake pastors” and unregulated churches, including possible arrests and stricter requirements for religious leaders.

In a post published Thursday on his X platform account, the Chief of Defence Forces said a future government led by the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) would take firm action against religious figures operating outside formal structures.

“You can be sure of one thing: the day PLU takes over government we will arrest ALL the fake pastors and churches all over the country!” he wrote.

Muhoozi added that such individuals could face criminal charges, suggesting offences such as “insulting God.” He also proposed that anyone leading a church should be required to hold at least a degree in theology, arguing that formal training would help regulate religious practice.

His proposal mirrors reforms implemented in Rwanda, where the government introduced strict regulations on religious institutions.

In 2018, Rwanda required pastors to have a minimum of an undergraduate degree in theology, alongside operational standards for churches such as infrastructure and membership thresholds. Enforcement intensified in 2024, when authorities inspected over 13,000 places of worship and shut down thousands for failing to meet legal and operational requirements.

Further measures introduced in 2025 included tighter financial compliance rules, stricter licensing processes, and enhanced oversight of public religious gatherings and foreign preachers.

Paul Kagame has previously defended the reforms, saying they were aimed at professionalising religious leadership, curbing exploitation, and regulating the rapid growth of informal ministries.

Muhoozi’s comments are likely to spark debate in Uganda, where religious institutions play a central role in education, healthcare, and community development. Past attempts to regulate churches have often triggered discussions around religious freedom, state oversight, and the balance between regulation and constitutional rights