The Church of Uganda has officially rejected the appointment of Bishop Sarah Mullally as the new Archbishop of Canterbury, citing deep doctrinal differences with the Church of England over same-sex or LGBT relationships and biblical interpretation.
In a strongly worded statement, the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, said the province would not recognize Bishop Mullally’s leadership once she assumes office. He explained that the decision was made in line with the Church’s commitment to uphold traditional Anglican teachings on marriage and sexuality.
Dr. Kaziimba said the Church of England’s continued endorsement of same-sex blessings contradicts the Bible’s clear teachings, and the Ugandan Church cannot maintain communion with leaders who depart from those principles.
“The Church of Uganda remains faithful to the authority of Scripture. We cannot walk together with those who persist in promoting what the Bible calls sin,” Kaziimba said.
Bishop Mullally, who will succeed Archbishop Justin Welby, has previously defended the Church of England’s inclusive stance, calling for compassion and unity despite differing views on sexuality.
The move further highlights the widening rift within the global Anglican Communion, where several African provinces — including Uganda, Kenya, and Nigeria — have distanced themselves from the Church of England over LGBTQ+ issues.
