The leader of Phaneroo International Ministries, Apostle Grace Lubega, has rejected claims that the church is grabbing land in Naguru, escalating an already heated standoff with the Uganda Heart Institute (UHI).
Speaking during a Thursday fellowship at the ministry’s Naguru base, Lubega dismissed the allegations as politically driven and misleading, insisting that Phaneroo is not blocking any development, but demanding due process.
“We are not grabbing anybody’s land,” he said. “If you want part of our land, compensate what the Christians paid for. It’s not for free.”
Lubega made it clear that the church’s position is not opposition to development, but rather the lack of compensation for land acquired by its members.
“Don’t try to use politics to twist the hands of people to give what was bought with money,” he said.
He emphasized that compensation is a government responsibility, not a matter to be negotiated informally between institutions.
“That’s not our part or their part. It’s the government’s part to do that.”
The controversy also touches on a proposed access road linked to the Naguru Medical Hub plan. Lubega questioned the design and safety implications, warning that poor planning could endanger lives.
“Show us the plan… you have a 12–13 metre cliff there. Imagine cars speeding and crashing down,” he said.
He argued that stakeholders must be fully consulted to avoid conflicts with neighboring developments.
Lubega stressed that the land in question belongs to Phaneroo members, not to him personally, framing the dispute as a matter of stewardship and accountability.
“This land is not for Apostle Grace. It’s for the members of Phaneroo Ministries International.”
Dispute Intensifies
The remarks add fuel to a growing public dispute after UHI officials accused Phaneroo of blocking access to land needed for critical infrastructure, including generators for the cardiac facility.
Government has since stepped in, urging both sides to negotiate, while the Uganda Land Commission and other agencies review the matter.
