Kampala – The Church of Uganda has moved swiftly to reassure the public that Archbishop Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu is safe and continuing his pastoral duties in the United States following the rapid spread of a viral video claiming he was attacked during a church service in Boston.

According to an official statement issued on Monday, May 4, 2026, what occurred at St. Peter’s Anglican Church in Winchester, Massachusetts, on Sunday, May 3, was a brief disruption by a small group of individuals, not a physical attack. Church stewards and security quickly restored order, and the service proceeded normally, with the Archbishop leading Holy Communion and interacting with congregants afterward.

“The reports circulating online are false and misleading,” the Church stated. “Archbishop Kaziimba was not harmed in any way. He remains safe and continues to execute his ministry as scheduled during his international visit.”

Context of the Incident

Footage from the service shows a packed congregation with a momentary commotion involving a small group, including at least one person holding a Ugandan flag. The individuals voiced frustrations over the Archbishop’s perceived silence on political and human rights issues in Uganda, such as the detention of opposition figures and the controversial Protection of Sovereignty Bill. Ushers escorted the group out, and the service continued without further interruption.

The incident comes weeks after Archbishop Kaziimba addressed critics in a sermon in Kampala, where he explained his leadership philosophy. He rejected pressure to emulate the confrontational style of the late Archbishop Janani Luwum, who was murdered under Idi Amin’s regime, emphasizing personal responsibility, family considerations, and the effectiveness of quieter, strategic engagement over public confrontation.

“I am a person; I need life also. I have a life to live. I’m not your saviour… Don’t I have a family?” he said in the earlier remarks, drawing both support and sharp criticism from sections of the Ugandan public.

Archbishop’s US Visit

Archbishop Kaziimba is on an official pastoral and diplomatic visit to the United States, engaging with the Ugandan diaspora and strengthening ties within the global Anglican Communion, including participation in the Global Anglican Future Conference (GAFCON). Boston and surrounding areas, particularly Waltham — often called “Little Kampala” — host a vibrant Ugandan community.

The Church has urged the public to disregard sensational claims designed to cause unnecessary anxiety, stressing that the Archbishop’s ministry program remains on track.

This episode highlights ongoing debates within Uganda’s Anglican community and diaspora about the role of religious leaders in addressing national political matters. While some praise Archbishop Kaziimba’s measured approach, others continue to call for more vocal advocacy on governance and human rights issues.

As the story continues to trend on social media, TrendingUg.com will keep readers updated with verified developments. The Archbishop’s safety and continued leadership remain the central message from Church officials.

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