Part 132. Uganda

When european states colonised Africa it was divided into colonies the boundaries of which had no regard for the geographic distribution of the indigenous tribes. When independence was gained it was followed in some states by tribal warfare. Nigeria springs to mind. It was reminiscent of the carnage following partition of India, although the latter had its basis in religion.  In Africa politics, religion, genocide, apartheid and external influences have all played a role in feeding civil unrest and military intervention.

Uganda has form when it comes to attacking minorities.  Idi Amin forced thousands of Asians, mostly immigrants from India, to leave. Now the Ugandan state is coming after homosexuals, criminalising them and attaching prison sentences and the death penalty as punishment.

The reaction of Christian churches has been abject. The Anglican church in Uganda is broadly in favour of criminalising homosexuality and is planning to offer what in effect will be conversion therapy. Where is the denunciation from the Anglican Communion? Not a sign. The Salvation Army has a Uganda Territory. What representations are the Army's international leaders making? Deafening silence? I have not noted any sign of condemnation from the Roman Catholic Church.  

Overall the reaction of the churches is deplorable.  Theology has real consequences. Bible literalist fundamentalists such as the GAFCON crowd, amongst others, have a lot to answer for.