Some Pastors Celebrated My Shooting, Says Bugingo

Pastor Aloysius Bugingo was allegedly shot at last year although police investigations have not revealed any leads
Pastor Aloysius Bugingo of House of Prayer Ministries has revealed that some of his fellow pastors privately celebrated the attempt on his life on January 2, 2024.
Speaking to his congregation at Canan Land in Kikoni, Bwaise, Bugingo recalled the fateful day when unknown gunmen attacked him, killing his bodyguard, Corporal Richard Muhumuza, of the Special Forces Command.
Bugingo lamented the challenges his ministry has faced over the years, including hostility from within the religious community.
"House of Prayer Ministries has endured battles from all corners. I pray to the Almighty God to change those pastors who fight us because I respect them as pioneers of the Born-Again movement," he said.
Reflecting on the shooting, Bugingo claimed that some pastors celebrated the news in private.
"On that day, some pastors rejoiced in their bedrooms when they heard I had been shot. But I thank the Almighty God that I am still alive," he said, urging his followers to join him in celebrating 14 years of the church’s existence.
Bugingo also spoke about the rare moments of unity among pastors, often during meetings at State House.
He noted that invitations to such events sometimes spark speculation about his attendance.
"I receive my invitation card directly from State House officials. They may think I have not attended, but the person on the switcher machine always displays my presence on the TV screen," he said.
He expressed hope for greater unity among pastors in the future, envisioning a joint crusade with their congregations, choirs, and shared preaching of the Word of God.
Meanwhile, the investigation into the attempted shooting remains unresolved.
Police spokesperson Katuuma Rusoke said in November 2024 that no breakthroughs had been made, though preliminary findings suggested the gun used in the attack was the same weapon involved in the murder of vlogger Isma Tusuubira, also known as Isma Olaxes.
Bugingo's claims have reignited discussions about divisions within Uganda’s religious community and the broader challenges facing leaders in the Born-Again movement.