The Bishop of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, has been elected Chairman of the Uganda Episcopal Conference, the national body bringing together Catholic bishops in Uganda.
His election followed the annual plenary assembly of Catholic bishops held in Kampala, according to Lira Catholic Diocese.
Bishop Wanok succeeds the Bishop of Kiyinda-Mityana Diocese, Rt. Rev. Joseph Anthony Zziwa, while Archbishop of Mbarara, Most Rev. Lambert Bainomugisha, has been elected Vice-Chairman.
Before his election, Bishop Wanok served as Vice-Chairman of the Uganda Episcopal Conference.
Lira Catholic Diocese welcomed the development, saying the election had generated excitement among the clergy and faithful, who are celebrating their Bishop’s elevation to a national leadership position in the Catholic Church.
The appointment comes ahead of Bishop Wanok’s 40th anniversary of priesthood on November 27, 2026. The milestone will coincide with the Lira Diocese Men’s Run, an initiative intended to raise awareness about prostate cancer.
As Chairman, Bishop Wanok will provide leadership to the Episcopal Conference, which brings together Catholic bishops to coordinate the Church’s pastoral mission and address issues affecting the Church and society.
His election marks a new chapter in his service to the Catholic Church and places Lira Diocese in a key position within the country’s Catholic leadership.
Source: Lira Catholic Diocese