Lira, Uganda — Pastor James Adima of Truth Fountain Ministry-Odokomit has urged the church to support leaders who open their hearts to God, saying such leadership brings real development.
He made the remarks on Sunday, May 4, 2025, during a special prayer and blessing for Patricia Aceng Ogwang, who has declared her intention to contest for Lira City Woman Member of Parliament in 2026 under the NRM party.
Pastor Adima emphasized that the church should not distance itself from politics, especially when candidates demonstrate integrity and a God-fearing attitude.
He said it was important for church elders to support individuals seeking political office so that their vision and manifesto could be guided and fulfilled.
He confirmed that the church had officially blessed Aceng’s candidature and promised ongoing support throughout her political journey.
Patricia Aceng Ogwang, in her remarks to the congregation, expressed gratitude for the church’s blessing and reflected on her upbringing in the Christian faith.
She said she grew up in the church and believed it was wise to begin her political journey with blessings from religious leaders.
Aceng stated that she viewed knowing God as the foundation of wisdom and considered spiritual guidance essential to her ambition.
She also shared that she had recently returned from a leadership training in Harare, Zimbabwe, which focused on the responsible use of social media in politics.
Aceng criticized the misuse of online platforms by some politicians, whom she accused of using them for personal attacks and spreading hate. She appealed to the church to take a firm stand against such behaviour.
Aceng explained that her decision to contest was driven by the visible suffering of many residents in Lira City, particularly vulnerable groups neglected by current political leaders.
She gave the example of children living along the roadsides, whom she said had been ignored for too long.
Tonny Ogwang Bala, who also addressed the gathering, voiced his support for Aceng.
He said the challenges facing Lira City required energetic and visionary leaders and called on the community to support individuals with clear ideas and a genuine commitment to change.
Aceng affirmed her readiness to serve and indicated that she would focus on issues affecting ordinary citizens, pledging to run a campaign based on humility, values, and public service.