KAMPALA – In a sermon that has sparked widespread controversy, influential televangelist Pastor Aloysius Bujingo unveiled plans for an expansive new church headquarters, dubbed “The Pentagon,” which will include luxury amenities such as a swimming pool.
The announcement, made to his congregation over the weekend, was coupled with a sharp rebuke of those who have questioned the project’s scale and funding. Pastor Bujingo declared that construction would proceed on his own timeline, free from external pressure.
“We shall have a swimming pool on one side of the pentagon,” Bujingo stated. “One day like this we shall start building our pentagon but not at anyone’s pressure.”
It was his subsequent comments, however, that ignited a firestorm of criticism. The pastor directly targeted individuals who have been demanding transparency or expedited construction, making sweeping generalizations about their character and financial status.
“Praise the lord if you understand it,” he continued. “Only poor people have time to pressure us and most of those demanding for our Pentagon are possessed by demons of their ancestors.”
The remarks have been met with condemnation from both the public and fellow religious leaders. Many have accused the pastor of elitism and using spiritual language to malign and dismiss legitimate questions from his followers and the community.
“This is a deeply concerning statement from a man of the God,” commented social critic Dr. Evelyn Nakato. “To equate poverty with idleness and to weaponize spiritual beliefs to label critics as ‘demon-possessed’ is not only offensive but also a dangerous abuse of pulpit authority. It shifts the focus from accountability to personal attack.”
The planned “Pentagon” complex is reported to be a multi-purpose facility intended to host church activities, media productions for his television channel, and now, recreational facilities. While supporters see it as a sign of growth and divine blessing, detractors have long questioned the opulence of such projects amidst widespread economic hardship.
Pastor Bujingo’s ministry has previously been a subject of public debate, often centered on its lavish displays of wealth and the pastor’s lifestyle. This latest incident is likely to further polarize opinions on his leadership and the source of his ministry’s funding.
As of now, the church administration has not released an official statement clarifying the pastor’s comments or providing further details on the budget or timeline for the “Pentagon” project.
