Pastor Rwomushana backs Gashumba’s concerns over alleged fake miracles

What the report says

Pastor Isaac Rwomushana has publicly backed businessman Frank Gashumba’s criticism of pastors who claim to perform miraculous healings, adding to a growing debate in Uganda over faith, money and accountability in churches. According to Sqoop Uganda, Rwomushana said he is sceptical of religious leaders who present themselves as having extraordinary healing powers and accused some of using promises of miracles and religious items to attract money from believers.

In remarks reported by the outlet, Rwomushana said he does not perform miracles and described a crusade experience that made him doubt another preacher’s claims. He also questioned the sale of items such as handkerchiefs, water and apples as holy objects, arguing that blessings should not be tied to buying products. He further criticised practices such as urging congregants to stand in the rain as though it carried a spiritual cleansing, saying natural explanations should not be ignored.

Rwomushana also raised concerns about financial burdens placed on worshippers, including expectations that they provide food and cover household costs for pastors. His comments mirror Gashumba’s recent challenge to religious leaders who say they can heal severe illness by divine power. Gashumba has offered Shs500 million to any pastor who can prove such healing under conditions he set, including treating a critically ill patient at a major hospital. The issue has triggered wider discussion about church practices and the responsibilities of religious leaders.