Archbishop-elect Stanly Ntagali was on Saturday afternoon treated to a hero’s welcome as he returned to Masindi Kitara Diocese.
Ntagali, who has been bishop in Masindi for almost eight years, was on Friday elected by the House of Bishops of the Church of Uganda to take over from Henry Luke Orombi as archbishop of Uganda.
While returning to Masindi Kitara diocese after the election, the 55 year old bishop was led in a motorcade of over 200 vehicles from Kafu Bridge in Nakasongola, about 40 kilometres from Masindi town. Kafu is at the border between Luweero Diocese and Masindi Kitara Diocese.
Just a few kilometres from Masindi town, the motorcade was joined by hundreds of chanting boda boda cyclists. Originally in his official car, Bishop Ntagali moved to an open-roof car to wave to an enthusiastic crowd all the way to the diocesan headquarters in Bulyasojo.
Due to the heavy traffic, the journey from Kafu that normally takes 30 minutes took about four hours. Business in Masindi town came to a stand still for about an hour as the Bishop Ntagali’s motorcade moved through the streets.
Addressing the jubilant crowd, Ntagali attributed his election to this highest office to the support and prayers by Christians and all people of Masindi Kitara Diocese.
He maintained that he is still bishop Masindi Kitara until his consecration on December 16, 2012. The archbishop-elect, however, warned the clergy and other church officials in the diocese against unnecessary scuffles as they struggle to replace him. He urged them to leave this role to the synod and genuinely accept whoever will be chosen.
Ntagali pledged to make follow-ups to ensure all the projects he has initiated in the diocese are completed. He has been spearheading a campaign to have Kabalega College in Masindi elevated to a university, and building of a new diocese cathedral among other projects.
Among those that turned up to welcome him were political leaders, elders and religious leaders of all denominations.
Joshua Amanyire, the mayor of Masindi Municipality, said Masindi Kitara is blessed to produce the new leader of the Anglican Church in Uganda.
