- Otafiire questioned why pastors receive state police escorts without clear threats.
- He argued that “men of God” should rely on divine protection, not taxpayer security.
- Government says escort costs are rising and funds should go to public CCTV security instead.
Minister Kahinda Otafiire who has become renowned for his controversial takes on the different issues in society is at it again.
The outspoken Internal Affairs Minister stirred fresh debate while appearing before Parliament, questioning why prominent pastors move with police escorts funded by the state.
It should be noted that netizens have for long wondered why the so-called men of God rely on earthly things such as health services, heavy security and police protection for their well-being, yet they preach to their followers to rely fully on God for the same.
Speaking before MPs at Parliament of Uganda, Otafiire did not mince his words.
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“Those who work for God should be protected by God. They work for good; that is the responsibility of God.”
He added bluntly:
“If they ask for pay from us, God should pay them. But I don’t care.”
The remarks came after legislators questioned the growing number of pastors and religious figures moving with armed escorts and lead police vehicles despite no publicly known threats to their lives.
Otafiire explained that police protection is supposed to be based on verified security threats — not status, popularity or religious influence.
At the same meeting, government officials warned that escort services are becoming too expensive to sustain. With limited police resources, leaders argued that the focus should shift to strengthening public security systems like CCTV surveillance instead of assigning officers to individuals.
The debate has since spilled onto social media, where Ugandans are divided. Some agree with the Minister, saying public funds should protect all citizens equally. Others argue that high-profile pastors face unique risks that may require protection.
Whether one agrees with him or not, Otafiire’s comments have once again ignited a national conversation on privilege, faith and the use of taxpayer money.
