Makerere University Accused of Religious Discrimination in Court
KAMPALA – A legal battle has been initiated at Uganda’s Equal Opportunity Commission (EOC) against Makerere University, following allegations of religious discrimination targeting the Born Again Christian community.
The case was brought forward by Pastor Martin Ssempa, who claims the university administration, under Vice Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, unjustly closed down a Born Again church operating on campus.
According to Ssempa, the university’s justification for the closure was a long-standing policy of only officially recognizing three religious groups: the Catholic, Anglican, and Muslim faiths. This policy, Ssempa argues, systematically excludes the Balokole (a term commonly used for Born Again Christians in Uganda) and violates their constitutional rights.
“This is Discrimination and a violation of our freedom of worship rights enshrined in the constitution,” Ssempa stated in a social media post announcing the legal action. “That is why I took them to the Equal Opportunity Commission for justice.”
The dispute highlights a growing tension at one of Africa’s oldest and most prestigious universities. While the institution has a historic tradition of accommodating the three major religious groups, newer and rapidly growing evangelical movements are challenging this model, demanding equal access and recognition.
Pastor Ssempa’s case at the EOC seeks to compel Makerere University to extend official recognition to the Born Again community, allowing their members to worship freely on campus and access the same facilities and opportunities afforded to the other recognized groups.
The outcome of this case at the Equal Opportunity Court could set a significant precedent for religious inclusivity and the rights of minority faith groups within public institutions across Uganda.
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