The Anglican Church of Kenya Katakwa Diocese new Bishop Rev. John Okude Omuse has told Christians to stop the culture of seeking bribes from aspirants so as to vote for them. Speaking during his homecoming and thanksgiving service at Aterait Primary School in Teso South, Bishop Okude said the culture of bribing voters had reached alarming levels in the country.
“Voters should not wait to be induced by politicians to exercise their democratic rights to vote. They should turn up in large numbers to vote on their own volition. It is also imperative to maintain peace ahead of 2017 elections. Politicians should carry out their campaigns in a peaceful manner to avoid the resurgence of violence,” he said.
Bishop Okude returned to the same compound where he sat for his Certificate of Primary Education 41 years ago. He thanked those who stood by him to realize his dreams of heading the Anglican Church.
“I am ready to walk with you for nine-and-half years in this journey hoping that the blessings of Katakwa will descend upon you,” he said.
Christians from all walks of life converged for the service. They included Rev Daniel Etatai, Pallisa Archdeaconry, All Saints Church in Eastern Uganda, first Katakwa Bishop Eliud Okiring’s wife Beatrice Okiring, retired Bishops Zakayo Epus (Katakwa) and Michael Sande (Butere). Bishop Okude was feted with many presents including a set of sofa sets from Teso South MP Mary Emaase.
Bishop Okude will kick start his official duties as the new Bishop on September 18th, 2016 at the St. John’s Cathedral Church Katakwa.
Mrs. Okiring said the church was happy with the choice of Okude as the new Bishop and pledged to give him the necessary support.