Makerere Community Church Pastor Martin Ssempa has called on Parliament to legalise polygamy among Christians, arguing that it would promote equality and eliminate discrimination in Uganda’s marriage laws.
Speaking before the Legal Affairs Committee, which is currently reviewing the Marriage Bill and the Sexual Offences Bill, Sempa emphasized that Christian men who wish to have multiple wives should be allowed to do so legally, just as it is permitted in other religious and cultural settings.
“Many Christian men desire to have more than one wife but are restricted by outdated legal structures. Legalizing polygamy will give them the freedom to practice their faith without discrimination,” Ssempa told the committee.
The debate on polygamy has been a contentious issue in Uganda, with different religious and cultural groups holding opposing views. While Islam and several traditional communities already allow multiple wives, Christian teachings have generally upheld monogamy.
Sempa’s remarks have sparked discussions on whether Uganda’s marriage laws should be revised to accommodate diverse religious and cultural perspectives. The Legal Affairs Committee is expected to continue consultations before making recommendations on the bills.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
