The light of new Hope for the Bright future in Africa: Oh, really: Ryuho Okowa, Japanese Happy Science Cult leader to conduct first lecture in Africa, on 23rd – June-2012 at, Namboole Stadium Kampala, Uganda

 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works(2 Corinthians 11:14-15).

 

Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD(Jeremiah 17:5).

The light of new Hope for the Bright future in Africa: First lecture in Africa

http://www.happyscience-uganda.org  

Happy Science New Age Occult Religion invades Uganda: Uganda Broadcasting Corporation gives it air space

http://watchmanafrica.blogspot.com/2010/05/happy-science-new-age-occult-religion.html

The Invasion of Eastern Mysticism
http://www.ankerberg.com/Articles/_PDFArchives/new-age/NA2W0802.pdf    

Who is Ryuho Okawa??

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ryuho_Okawa

Ryuho Okawa (大川 隆法 Ōkawa Ryūhō^?, born July 7, 1956 in Tokushima Prefecture) is the CEO and founder of the Happy Science religious organization and the Happiness Realization Party in Japan. After graduating from the University of Tokyo, he joined a Tokyo-based trading house. While working at its New York headquarters on the 40th floor of the 1 World Trade Center from 1982-1983, he studied finance at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York. Just as he got promoted, he resigned his business career and started Happy Science on October 6, 1986. Since the founding of Happy Science, Okawa has reportedly published over 500 books, with 7 films based on his teachings like: The Laws of the Sun, The Laws of Eternity, and The Golden Laws.These three books contain the core teachings of Happy Science. In a related article (Tuesday, August 4, 2009), The Japan Times quotes Okawa's political organization, which claims that he is a reincarnation of Buddha who achieved enlightenment in March 1981 "and awakened to the hidden part of his consciousness, El Cantare, whose mission is to bring happiness to all humanity". He is married to Kyoko Okawa, former leader of the Happiness Realization Party and "the reborn Aphrodite and the bodhisattva of wisdom and intellect". Okawa was the target of a failed assassination attempt by Aum Shinrikyo in January 1995 using VX agent.

What is the Happy Science cult???

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Happy_Science

Happy Science (幸福の科学 Kōfuku-no-Kagaku^?) is a new religious and spiritual movement founded in Japan on 6 October 1986 by Ryuho Okawa. Happy Science became an official religious organization in Japan 7 March 1991. In the USA, Happy Science has been a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization since 1994.
In February 2008, the official English name for the group was changed from the Romanized Japanese Kofuku-no-Kagaku (literal translation "science of happiness") to the English rendering "Happy Science". Their former English name was "IRH - The Institute for Research in Human Happiness" which is still the name for their publishing company "IRH Press".

Teaching of the Happy Science Cult 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Happy_Science  
Okawa claims to channel the spirits of Muhammad, Christ, Buddha and Confucius and claims to be the incarnation of the supreme spiritual being called El Cantare. Happy Science claims that El Cantare is the true hidden name of the Heavenly Father in the Old Testament, Elohim, known in the Middle East as the God of creation (El) and in other ancient cultures of the world as the Cosmic Tree of Life and the World Tree.
The basic teachings of Happy Science are "Exploration of the Right Mind" and the "Principles of Happiness". According to Okawa, in order to obtain happiness one must practice the Principles of Happiness known as "The Fourfold Path", Love, Wisdom, Self-Reflection and Progress. The only requirement to join Happy Science is that applicants must have "the aspiration and vision to seek the way and contribute to the realization of love, peace and happiness on earth".
Although its teachings are based on the Buddhist foundations of reflection and keeping Right Mind, it also incorporates modern day prosperity and development in order to improve oneself and society. The teachings given by Ryuho Okawa are said to be universal and center on the pluralistic belief that all major religions originated from one source.

Ten rules of wosdom

http://www.happyscience-uganda.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=49&Itemid=57
 
The Principles of Happiness, Love, the Mind, Enlightenment, Progress, Wisdom, Utopia, Salvation, Self-Reflection, and Prayer—these are the ten principles that can serve as a compass for a spiritual life, enabling each and every person to bring happiness and spiritual growth to themselves, and to all those around them.

The Laws of the Sun 

 

http://www.happyscience-uganda.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=56&Itemid=64  

The Spiritual Laws and true history of creation of universe and human beings.
In this poweful book, Master Okawa reveal the transcendent nature of counciouness, the secret of our multi-dimensional universe. This book is for those  who are seeking for enlightment about Cosmic conciousness, our true nature and our mission over the reincanations on this world.
Now, you can discover about the spiritual secrets as
What is the nature of spirit and soul?
What are universal spiritual laws and how we can learn to live in harmony with them?
What really happens when we die?
How our thoughts influence reality?
Why disharmony between the soul and the body result in illness?
Where we came from and where we are going to?
What is enlightment?
What is Love ?
Who is El Cantare?
The Laws of Sun shows the way to achieve true happiness,  happiness that continues from this world through to the other. You can learn about the Eightfold Path of Buddhism and the modern fourthfold path to achieve spiritual development.

Also see,

Exposing the Africa Yoga project : Yoga and Children in War Ravaged Northern Uganda

http://watchmanafrica.blogspot.com/2009/12/exposing-africa-yoga-project-yoga-and.html    


THE NEW AGE RELIGION HAS INVADED AFRICA: BE WARE OF HUMANISM: FAITH IN YOUR FAITH OR FAITH IN GOD: A scriptural critique of Ethan Musolini’s TIPS

http://watchmanafrica.blogspot.com/2009/08/new-age-religion-has-invaded-africa-be.html

New Age medicine Invades Africa: Be ware of Reflexology, Acupuncture and other so called Alternative medicine

http://watchmanafrica.blogspot.com/2010/04/new-age-in-health-care-enlarged.html

What Signs Are These? Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke coming to Kampala, June 6th -10th , 2012

What Signs Are These?

Commentary by Roger Oakland

http://www.understandthetimes.org/commentary/c11.shtml  

www.understandthetimes.org
 
Signs and wonders are happening all over the world! Are they genuine? Or could these be the signs Jesus said would occur before His Second Coming? If these signs and wonders are of God, who would want to be against them? If the signs and wonders are deceptive, then why would anyone want to be for them? Any attempt to answer these questions will naturally invite great controversy.


The Bible states we should "mark those who cause division." 1 The Bible also teaches that unity within the body of Christ is very important. But, what is the biblical definition of unity? Can Christianity be based on false ideas, error, deception or lying signs and wonders? What does the Bible claim? Should the Bible be overlooked in order to fabricate a false unity in the name of Christ? Shouldn't Christian unity always be based on the truth?


While those who question ecumenism are often labeled divisive and narrow-minded, the Bible does command that the word of God be carefully presented. While I have often been accused of being divisive, I wonder sometimes if I have been misunderstood.


Read Romans 16: 7 in its entire context and you will see the whole picture. Paul wrote: "Now I urge you brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them." 2 According to Paul, divisiveness is caused by those who teach "contrary" to what the Bible teaches.


Before writing this commentary I asked for God's help. I am not looking for more controversy. However, what do you do when you see a trend underway the Bible warns about? Or, what do you do when some are saying "these are the signs and wonders that we have been anticipating that will now prepare the way for Jesus to come?"


One of these two views must be wrong. If the signs are from God, then warning people against them would be blasphemous. If the signs are false, then the consequences are very serious and many people could be deceived if they are not warned.


Supporters of the "signs and wonders" are convinced they are right. Who are you they say to claim they are wrong? Or, it is unbiblical for you to attack a well known pastor or a famous evangelist? What about these healings and people being raised from the dead? Didn't Jesus say we could do what He did? Are you saying that "signs and wonders" do not follow the preaching of the gospel? 


Or, there is another common argument. Why would anyone be so bold to speak out against a revival? Are you more interested in eschatology than knowing the truth? Another one of my critics actually said, "No wonder you suffer so much hardship and your son was killed in an accident - you are guilty of blaspheming the Holy Ghost."


Yes, I have heard all these questions, comments and accusations. People write or call me every day. One brother told me, "The whole world is coming to Jesus whether you believe it or not. If you don't stop what you are doing, I am predicting God will take you out."


I take these claims seriously, of course. Who would want to blaspheme God? Who would want to be personally responsible for holding back a genuine revival? This is a serious matter. If my critics are right, I am wrong and a tool of the devil as they say. As well, I know that hell is a real place. I don't want to go there, nor anyone else that I know.


Nigeria's Miracle

If you have not heard about "Nigeria's Miracle," you will. Christians all over the world are talking about one of the most amazing "revivals" in history. People are gathering in the name of Christ by the hundreds of thousands. "Signs and wonders are following the preaching of the simple gospel," many say. Could this be the great revival the "New Wine Movement" has been predicting? Or is there a possibility the world is being prepared for a final grand delusion mentioned in the Bible? 3


An article "Come and Receive Your Miracle" from Christianity Today, February 5, 2001, provides interesting insight into the "revival" in Nigeria. The leading paragraph states: "German evangelist Reinhard Bonnke's mass healings and evangelistic crusades are setting records, but career missionaries say the quality of disciples, not the quantity of the crowd, is the key to reaching Nigerians." 4 While it is apparent that "miracle meetings" draw large crowds, not everyone who believes in miracles is impressed with Reinhard Bonnke's style.


Bonnke's meetings are often attended by over 500,000. On one occasion he shouted: "Jesus is the Savior of Nigeria. All of Nigeria is going to heaven." 5


While the massive crowds are a strong indication that many are being attracted to the meetings, how many in attendance understand the message of the gospel? Are the masses being led to Jesus as Savior, or are they being attracted to the miracles that are associated with His name?


Although Bonnke may be sincere in his objective to see all Nigerians saved, there is a possibility that he may be deceived. He claims that when he was a young missionary in Lesotho, South Africa, the Holy Spirit gave him a vision. According to Bonnke, he saw the entire African continent washed in the blood of Jesus. 6


Charisma, May 2002, also helps us to further understand the nature of the Nigerian revival. While it is true massive meetings are being held with hundreds of thousands in attendance, the style of leadership needs to be tested. According to an article titled "Nigeria's Miracle," observers say that God is raising up an army to evangelize a continent. 7


This idea of an army being raised up is not new. In 1948 the Latter Rain Movement founded in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, called for an army of empowered believers. Often called Joel's Army, a prediction was made that the whole world would be Christianized by these mighty self-appointed soldiers of God. While the army went underground for a while, it's now back in full force.


Even Charisma attempts to add a word of warning. One statement reads: "While Nigeria's churches are growing, many of them are preaching an imported message that focuses on money. They borrowed it from the United States." 8  A further comment confirms there is a genuine concern: "There is no question that Nigeria has been fertile ground for the American faith message. Kenneth Haggin Sr.'s teachings on healing and prosperity have enjoyed wide circulation in Nigeria since the 1970's, partly through the influence of Nigerian magachurch leader Benson Idahosa. Kenneth Copeland, Jerry Savelle, John Avanzini and many other preachers who specialize in the prosperity message have huge followings in the African country. " 9 


While supporters of the Signs and Wonders movement in Nigeria claim God is at work, there are others who are suspicious of the "revival" saying that it may be tainted with error. Many pastors, they say, "have adopted an American model of celebrity Christianity - which has been eagerly embraced by a patriarchal African culture that struggles with hero worship. People follow their leaders rather than God." 10  One spokesperson has stated: "I know of churches where they will not pray for you at the altar unless you give money first. They teach that you must give seed money first in order to receive any kind of blessing." 11


When I read the Charisma article about the great "Nigerian Miracle," it was about one week after I had visited Fort Worth Texas. On the way to my Sunday morning speaking engagement, we drove past a massive church called The Church of John Avanzini. Although it was a huge complex there were only a few cars in the parking lot. When I asked how many attended services on a Sunday morning I found out there were only a few. "They actually meet in a classroom and not the sanctuary," I was told.


Perhaps in the future, the "signs and wonders" that are happening in Nigeria will be exported back to the USA. In order for Latter Rain prophecies to be fulfilled, this definitely would have to happen. For now, I believe it would be beneficial to check out current trends with the Bible.


A Biblical Response

Many are saying that a global manifestation of "signs and wonders" will be essential for the spreading of the gospel on a worldwide scale. Over the past several decades, experience-based Christians have been promoting a style of evangelism that requires "Christian unity" as the prerequisite. Unity in the name of Christ, they say, produces miracles that are attributed to Christ. This method, better known as "power evangelism," is built upon the premise that "signs and wonders" bring about conversions to Christ necessary to usher in the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.


However, a careful study of the Bible indicates that before Jesus returns to earth there will be a time when people should be cautious about signs and wonders. Jesus said the signs and wonders at this time would be of the deceptive variety. 12   Paul also warned about such supernatural phenomena as part of a grand delusion that would deceive many and prepare the way for the antichrist. 13


Jesus also proclaimed a warning about a faith primarily focused on the miraculous. He said many would be deceived and spend eternity in hell. Even though they had experienced supernatural phenomenon in His name, they had never understood the simple gospel.  14


On another occasion Jesus warned about the dangers of seeking after signs and wonders. He said: "Why does this generation seek for a sign? Truly I say to you, no sign shall be given to this generation." 15  Later in the same chapter Jesus made it clear to His followers that they should understand the true reason for following Him. He declared: "If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever wishes to save his life shall lose it; and whoever loses his life shall for My sake and the gospel's sake shall save it." 16


It is obvious that Jesus placed a high propriety on the importance of understanding the gospel. He did not seem to promote the idea that people should seek Him for signs and wonders alone. So what is more important - to be healed, then later die and go to hell, or to understand the gospel and live forever?


One final example from the scriptures confirms that Jesus was not supportive of people following Him for the sake of miracles. Although Jesus is the God of true miracles, and it is true that signs and miracles follow the preaching of the gospel, people must not follow miracles for the sake of following miracles. They must understand the gospel. If they do not, there is great potential for deception in Christ's name. In Luke 3: 23-25 we read: "Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover, during the feast, many believed in His name, beholding in His signs which He was doing. But Jesus on His part, was not entrusting Himself to them, for He knew all men, and because He did not need anyone to bear witness concerning man for He Himself knew what was in man."


It would seem to me, based upon what Jesus has said and His actions as recorded in the Bible, that signs and wonders are secondary to the preaching of the true gospel. Should we not pay attention to what Jesus has said and done?


With regard to the signs and wonders that are supposedly behind the great "Nigerian Miracle" - how can we know for sure if these reported miracles are genuine or counterfeit? Are the masses being saved or could this be a preview of a future delusion that will send many to hell?


Before making a judgment it would be important to check out the facts. Remember, the road to hell is wide and many are those who travel on it. While the way to heaven is a narrow way, it is possible to travel this road if you understand the gospel.


And finally, there is one thing we can know for sure. The gospel is the ticket to go to heaven, not "signs and wonders." Of course, time will tell who is right and who is wrong. Meanwhile, remember that the consequences of being wrong are very serious. Eternity is a long time to spend in hell and there are no second chances to escape.
 
1. Romans 16: 17
2. Ibid.
3. 2 Thessalonians 2
4. Corrie Cutrer and Obed Minchakpu, "Come and Receive Your Miracle," Christianity Today, February 5, 2001, volume 45, No. 2, page 40
5. Ibid.
6. Ibid.
7. J. Lee. Grady, Christianity Today, May 2002, "Nigeria's Miracle," page 38
8. Ibid. p. 42
9. Ibid. p. 43
10. Ibid. p. 50
11. Ibid. p.
12. Matthew 24:24
13. 2 Thessalonians 2: 9
14: Matthew 7: 21-23
15. Mark 8:12
16. Mark 8: 24

Also see,

Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke coming to Kampala, June 6th -10th , 2012: Time for sound doctrine and repentance or for fake miracles, false impartations

http://watchmanafrica.blogspot.com/2012/05/evangelist-reinhard-bonnke-coming-to.html  

Stealth Ecumenism : Clergy blame disunity for Uganda’s underdevelopment

First read:

Be ware of Ecumenism

http://www.kizitomg.webs.com   

Debunking the Uganda Martyrs Myth: Did these young men simply believe a lie???

http://watchmanafrica.blogspot.com/2009/06/debunking-uganda-martyrs-myth-did-these.html  

Clergy blame disunity for Uganda’s underdevelopment

http://www.newvision.co.ug/news/631535-clergy-blame-disunity-for-uganda-s-underdevelopment.html

Publish Date: May 31, 2012

By Pascal Kwesiga and Justus Akampa

As Uganda gears up for the 50th independence jubilee, bishops from the Catholic, Anglican and Orthodox faiths have called on spiritual leaders and politicians to advocate for unity and love to promote peaceful coexistence among Ugandans.

The bishops under Uganda Joint Christian Council (UJCC) came together for a prayer pilgrimage at the Catholic and Anglican shrines in Namugongo Wednesday ahead of Uganda Martyrs’ Day due June 3^rd.

The historic day is marked in memory of the 45 Catholic and Anglican martyrs who were murdered on the orders of Kabaka Mwanga of Buganda for refusing to forsake their faith between 1885 and 1886.  

The prelates observed that the country is highly polarized along religious, ethnic and political lines.

The clergy, who held two masses with the bishop of Masindi Kitara diocese, Stanley Ntagali conducting one at the Catholic shrine and Kampala catholic archbishop, Dr. Cyprian Lwanga presiding over another at the Anglican shrine partly attributed the country's underdevelopment to disunity.

During his sermon, Ntagali who represented the Church of Uganda Archbishop, Henry Luke Orombi called on religious leaders to use the 50th independence celebration to evaluate the role they have played in the development of the country.

"We need to ask ourselves as religious leaders what kind of Uganda we want to see in the next 50 years and work towards achieving it," Ntagali said.

He explained that despite worshiping one God, Christians are disunited, adding that there is need to put their denominational differences behind them for the betterment of the country.

Ntagali noted that Christians need to draw inspiration from the Catholic and Anglican martyrs who died together for their faith.

Lwanga, during his sermon in which he explained the circumstances under which Mwanga ordered for the killing of the martyrs, said some Christians wonder why the clergy do not practice what they preach.

He said many Christians have failed to demonstrate love among one another yet they claim to love God.

"It is so easy to love God but fail to love each other,"

Lwanga said the example set by the Uganda martyrs when they were bundled up and killed together should serve as a constant reminder of the importance of unity and love.

He said the reason why he called for the preparations for the peaceful transfer of power to start now is because of the current state of affairs with various ethnic groups accusing the other of exploitation.

This, he argued was putting the unity and love among Ugandans at stake.

The bishop of north Ankole diocese that is organizing this year's celebrations for the Anglicans, John Muhanguzi said the church should not take sides on political matters that divide the people.

The bishops later held a closed-door reflection session at Namugongo.      

Josh McDowell Launches Website to Fight Porn, 'Church's No. 1 Threat'

Comment from Kato Mivule

Kato Mivule While the statement hold truth, it is rather REACTIVE; just a few years ago the same folks told us that the greatest threat to the Church was Homosexuality, then that battle was lost, and now we are told it is Porn. Very soon, we shall see a Christian Coalition against Porn and Legislative action against porn... This again is a distraction from the real threat to the Church...and that is a lack of Bible Truth, a Personal Relationship with Christ, and a focus on the Legislative and Political as a solution to the Spiritual...

Josh McDowell Launches Website to Fight Porn, 'Church's No. 1 Threat'

http://www.christianpost.com/news/josh-mcdowell-launches-website-to-fight-porn-churchs-no-1-threat-75584/  

By Anugrah Kumar , Christian Post Contributor

May 26, 2012|10:34 am

Apologist and author Josh McDowell launched Just1ClickAway.org, a new website to raise awareness about online pornography which he says is a problem big enough to cause the downfall of the church.

"The downfall of the church will not come from a lack of apologetic teaching; it will come from disintegration of the families in the church," says a video posted on the website, which was launched this week, just in time for summer vacation when students' media consumption significantly increases.

"The greatest threat to the cause of Christ is pervasive sexuality and pornography," McDowell, known as an articulate speaker, said in a statement Thursday. "Today we have, by and large, lost control of the controls because an intrusive immorality is just one click away from our children. With just one keystroke on a smartphone, iPad, or laptop, a child can open up some of the worst pornography and sexually graphic content you can imagine. There's never been such access in history. "

McDowell, who has written or co-authored 120 books since 1960, backs his claims with stunning statistics about the destructive impact of pornography on the Christian family.

More than 1 billion pornographic websites are one click away, and the average age of first-time viewers of pornography is 9 years old. About 80 percent of 15- to 17-year-olds have been exposed to hardcore porn, and the adult pornography industry reports that 20-30 percent of their traffic comes from children. More shockingly, half of all Christian families report that pornography is a problem, and 30 percent of pastors have viewed pornography in the last 30 days.

The newly produced video on the website shows that pornography aggressively preys on and attacks its victim, virtually in plain view of unsuspecting family members.

It features a boy, who looks below 10 years old and is seated on his bed with a tablet computer in the privacy of his bedroom. "Doing your homework?" asks a young woman, portrayed as a tempter. The boy, seeing her in his imagination, nods to say, "Yes." "Can I ask you something?" the girl says. "What's your favorite part about me? Do you wanna see more? I can show you whatever you want." Just then the mother comes into the room and tells him, "Honey, dinner is almost ready." Seeing her child's surprised reaction, she asks, "What's wrong?" "Nothing," he replies, pressing his laptop against his chest. "Finish up what you're doing and come on downstairs," his mother says.

The video goes on to feature a husband as well as a teenage girl as consumers of pornography and whose family members are also unaware of the dangerous viewing.

The video, which has a warning label for its mature content, later portrays each consumer being tortured by their addiction to pornography.

Offering hope and help, McDowell has made available resources to both spread awareness about the pervasiveness of pornography viewing and offer solutions. The Bare Facts, McDowell's "biblically based, medically sound and culturally relevant campaign" provides youth and those who influence them with an understanding of love, sexuality and relationships.

As part of a 45-city speaking tour in 15 countries throughout 2012, McDowell is touring Latin America with his Bare Facts campaign. With over 50 years in ministry, he has addressed more than 10 million young people, giving over 24,000 talks in 118 countries. McDowell lives in southern California with his wife Dottie and four children.

      

U.S. in Uganda: $50 million more to help Museveni hunt Kony???

http://www.anngarrison.com/audio/us-in-uganda-50-million-more-to-help-museveni-hunt-kony

The U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee this week voted to include another $50 million, in the draft version of the fiscal 2013 Defense bill, for surveillance and intelligence support to Ugandan troops, U.S. Green Berets and Navy Seals, who are, according to the Obama Administration, hunting East African warlord Joseph Kony.

Transcript: 

KPFA Weekend News Anchor: Despite worsening political repression and human rights abuse in Uganda, the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee this week voted to include another $50 million, in the draft version of the fiscal 2013 Defense bill, to "enhance and expand" intelligence and surveillance support for Ugandan troops, aided by U.S. Green Berets and Navy Seals, who are, according to the Obama Administration, tracking down East African warlord Joseph Kony and his militia of between 100 to 200 fighters. The troops are operating from four "forward bases" in Northern Uganda, in the Southwest Central African Republic, the northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, and South Sudan, all of which share borders in the oil and mineral resource rich East and Central African region. KPFA's Ann Garrison has the story.

KPFA/Ann Garrison: The Ugandan Army commanded by Yoweri Museveni, Uganda's president of 26 years, has a record of atrocities, resource plunder and other human rights abuse in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has been well documented by UN human rights investigators. In 2011, the Uganda Daily Monitor reported on Museveni's Military Police shot Ugandan civilians, including a three-year-old baby girl and an 18-yr.-old pregnant woman, during street protests against the soaring costs of food and fuel.  Uganda's secret service has a record of torture, as documented in the 2009 Human Rights Watch Report "Open .

Secret, Illegal Detention and Torture by the Joint Anti-Terrorism Task Force in Uganda."  And, a 2012 U.S. State Department report on Ugandan Human Rights Practices in 2011 cited international and local human rights organizations' accounts of torture by the State Security Forces, which included caning, severe beating, squeezing of rivate parts, stabbing, kicking, tying of limbs in contorted positions, forced marching, rape, water torture, tearing off of fingernails, burning with molten plastic, and cutting off of body parts.
Nevertheless, the U.S. Armed Services Committee says it wants to spend another $50 million to help Museveni's troops, and U.S. Navy Seals and Green . Berets, hunt East African warlord Joseph Kony. High profile critics including  Milton Allimadi, Keith Harmon Snow, and Pepé Escobar have said that  the Kony hunt is really about securing African oil, cornering Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir, and checkmating China in the African resource scramble.

Barbara Allimadi, a Ugandan human rights activist in the country's capital Kampala, and, the sister of New York City-based Black Star News Editor Milton Allimadi, told KPFA that she'd like to ask Americans to question why the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee wants to spend another $50 million dollars to aid General Museveni:

Barbara Allimadi:  Anybody who's really interested in our country, and in the Ugandan people can see the dictator Museveni in power. And the United States is supporting him. I really urge the American people to stand with us and question this. Why is America doing this? What is their motive?  Because really, the people of Uganda . . . our human rights are being violated. So really I would urge Americans to ask why your government is supporting General Museveni.

This week NTV-Uganda recorded Barbara Allimadi's most recent arrest, as she attempted to read a statement protesting indefinite detention without trial in front of police headquarters in Kampala.
Barbara Allimadi, as recorded by NTV-Uganda just before her latest arrest: I certainly will not turn a blind eye to any injustice. On Tuesday, the 18th of May, I was arrested for visiting the DPP's office, which is a public office. Myself and other concerned citizens had gone there to express our concern at the way the DPP cancels files . . .  Leave me alone! Don't touch me! Don't touch me!

KPFA/Ann Garrison: NTV-Uganda also recorded the arrest of Ingrid Turinawe, Womens' League leader of the political party Federation for Democratic Change. The video sparked outrage around the world, because a Ugandan policeman was seen brutally grabbing and squeezing Turinawe's breast, as they dragged her from a vehicle.

Barbara Allimadi said that Uganda's Parliament is now debating legislation called the Public Order Management Bill, which would make it illegal for more than three people to assemble in the streets.

For Pacifica, KPFA, and AfrobeatRadio, I'm Ann Garrison.
Also see,

Kony will be brought to justice – AFRICOM: But why did you take all that long and why now????

http://watchmanafrica.blogspot.com/2012/05/kony-will-be-brought-to-justice-africom.html  

Rwanda Chief Justice Questions Credibility Of ICC

http://redpepper.co.ug/welcome/?p=37973

Chief Justice, Sam Rugege, has expressed distrust in the international courts’ capability to try Africans, saying they are limited by distance and understanding the context in which the crimes were committed.

He made the remarks in an interview with The New Times yesterday, at the sidelines of the 10th edition of the East African Magistrates and Judges Association (EAMJA) conference in Kigali.

“Many Africans have said that they are unhappy about the way the International Criminal Court (ICC) operates. Instead of operating as an international court, many think it is biased towards the continent and ignores crimes committed in other parts of the world,” Rugege said.

He acknowledged that although ICC does assist countries that have limited capacity and will to try particular individuals, it is not right for war crimes being committed elsewhere to be ignored.

“Africa appreciates the purpose of setting up ICC and many African countries were the first signatories to join. However, when we are singled out, yet we witness very many other international cases being ignored, our trust in the court lessens.”

At the conference, participants pressed ICC to indict suppliers of arms to rebel groups such as FDLR that terrorize the region instead of focusing on the rebel leaders alone.

“Thomas Lubanga was tried and convicted for committing war crimes in DRC, but nobody ever questioned where he got the arms. Does he make grenades or AK47s? The western companies that support the war crimes in Africa must equally be punished for the atrocities,” a participant reiterated.

Rugege said in most instances, judges and prosecutors hearing trials of crimes committed in Africa are unaware of the context in which the crimes were committed, thus making unfair judgments.

“There are cases like that of Callixte Mbarushimana, who although was acquitted, the community where lived in Rwanda cannot accept him as an innocent man because they know what he did. Instead of being too philosophical and academic about cases, international court judges should try to understand the victims who feel that justice has eluded them,” he noted.

Mbarushimana was indicted by the ICC in for his participation in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and war crimes allegedly committed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 2009.

He was arrested in France in 2010 and extradited to the ICC but was released on December 24, 2011 on the grounds that the court did not have sufficient evidence to convict him.

Participants at the conference agreed that strengthening the capacity of regional courts and expanding their jurisdiction is their best option to develop trust and ability for African courts to try war criminals.

A MUST READ

Court Maneuvering Exposes Uganda’s Hidden Agenda: Evading ICC Jurisdiction

http://watchmanafrica.blogspot.com/2012/05/court-maneuvering-exposes-ugandas.html

Mugabe’s furry: Controversial Nigerian Christian Minister who Prophesies President Mugabe's Death has reportedly been invited by Minister Morgan Tsvangirai to speak at the African country's National Day of Prayer event on May 25.

Controversial Nigerian Christian Minister Prophesies President Mugabe's Death?

http://www.christianpost.com/news/controversial-nigerian-christian-minister-prophesies-president-mugabes-death-75448/         

By Stoyan Zaimov , Christian Post Reporter

May 23, 2012|5:03 pm

Zimbabwe's prime minister and opposition presidential candidate has reportedly invited a controversial Christian minister to speak at the African country's National Day of Prayer event on May 25. The invitation is being fiercely opposed by President Robert Mugabe's party after the minister is believed to have prophesied the 88-year-old leader's death.

The faith healer in question is Temitope Balogun Joshua, who is accused by senior officials of being a "Satanist" and "false prophet" for teaching what the ZANU-PF calls "judgmental, partisan, and unorthodox" messages. Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai invited Joshua to the May 25 event. The controversial minister claims to have healed people suffering illnesses through prayer and is believed to have made accurate prophecies concerning figures in the country. Most recently, Joshua has been accused of making a prophecy believed to predict Mugabe's death.

"TB Joshua uses evil powers which are satanic and satanic powers can also work. TB Joshua's visit does not scare me because he is not God. What are people scared of? What is he coming for? Does he have power to take life?" said Anglican Bishop Nolbert Kunonga.

Joshua, who leads the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) in Nigeria, where an estimated 15,000 people attend his Sunday services, reportedly may have a reliable track record. The Atlantic shared that the evangelist predicted last month that "an African leader" would die, just days before the president of Malawi, Bingu wa Mutharika, died on April 5 of a heart attack.

What reportedly might be troubling President Mugabe is that Joshua has recently predicted that another African leader will fall "critically ill' and be hospitalized soon. Zimbabwe's leader, who is 88 years old, has had many health scares in the past and has had to undergo treatment for heart problems and prostate cancer.
Mugabe, a Roman Catholic, said in February on his birthday, "I have died many times. That's where I have beaten Christ. Christ died once and resurrected once."

The National Day of Prayer event that Tsvangirai is helping organize may also build support for the prime minister, as Joshua is considered a popular preacher in Africa and enjoys a good deal of support from some sections of Zimbabwe's predominantly Christian population.

According to a 2007 U.S. state government report on Zimbabwe, between 70 and 80 percent of the population belong to mainstream Christian denominations, such as Roman Catholic, Anglican, and Methodist. Evangelical denominations, primarily Pentecostal churches and apostolic groups, have been reported to be on the rise.

Joshua also has affiliated congregations in Ghana, the U.K., South Africa, and Greece.

Also see,

TB Joshua, prophet of soccer and death, and the lie on letter from Mutahrika

http://watchmanafrica.blogspot.com/2012/04/tb-joshua-prophet-of-soccer-and-death.html

MORGAN TSVANGIRAI VISITS TB JOSHUA FOR SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE

http://watchmanafrica.blogspot.com/2010/09/morgan-tsvangirai-visits-tb-joshua-for.html

Makandiwa prophesies Mugabe’s death?

http://watchmanafrica.blogspot.com/2012/04/makandiwa-prophesies-mugabes-death.html

Hiding the serpent: Months have passed by Since Pastor Umar Mulinde’s acid attack: As usual the Ugandan police is just silent about investigations into this attack

First they came for the Jews
and I did not speak out
because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for the Communists
and I did not speak out
because I was not a Communist.
Then they came for the trade unionists
and I did not speak out
because I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for me
and there was no one left
to speak out for me.
Pastor Martin Niemöller

 Mulinde assailants target comedians, radio preachers

http://www.observer.ug/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=16917&Itemid=114

Wednesday, 01 February 2012 03:27

Written by Our Reporter

Amarula family, Bakayimbira Dramactors, Impact FM preachers and non-Muslims targeted

A group that claims to have executed the grisly attack on Pastor Umah Mulinde with acid on Christmas Eve seeks to broaden its evil mission and has now revealed that it is targeting more people it accuses of being bent on ostracizing Islam in their performances and sermons. They pinpoint drama groups and radio evangelists, particularly comedy group Amarula Family, Bakayimbira Dramactors, presenters on Christian radio Impact FM, other born-again leaders and non-Muslims in general.

The Observer has learnt that the anonymous group affiliated to Islam dropped a memo at Mulinde’s church in Namasuba in which it claimed responsibility for the attack.
This is the first time a group (or anyone) has claimed responsibility for the attack on Pastor Mulinde. Following the incident, there was speculation on the actual motive, with some people attributing it to land disputes and others, to religious rivalry. Mulinde himself blamed the attack on religious fanatics opposed to his conversion from Islam and his strong critique on the faith in debates and in his sermons.

The authors also claim responsibility for the ‘minor’ acid attack in August 2010 on actor Andrew Benon Kibuuka for his comic role as an ignorant ‘Hajji Bumaali’ on Bukedde TV, which Muslims deemed blasphemous to Islam. After the attack, Kibuuka changed the character’s name to ‘Dube’. He recently ended his broadcasts on Radio Simba. In the anonymous memo written in both English and Luganda, the authors warn of more attacks on Mulinde, saying the recent one was just the beginning.

They accuse him of slaughtering a pig while donning a Muslim cap. While the group accuses Mulinde and others of attacking Islam intentionally, it says some other individuals do so unknowingly, although this does not absolve them. They also say the success of their first attack on Mulinde shows that the Jesus Christ in whom he believes does not work.

“In conclusion, this is what Allah has enabled us to write and warn about the boundaries or limits which are widely ignored by non-Muslims,” the memo ends.

The Observer has also seen email correspondence between Mulinde and a host of senior pastors in the Pentecostal Church, dated January 27, in which he briefs them about the contents of the anonymous letters and the state of his health.

“A few days ago, three letters were dropped at my church in which a Muslim group claimed to have attacked me, but that they are so sorry that I did not die! . . . They regard the attack on me as a blow to all Christians and all non-Muslims.”

Mulinde warns fellow evangelists not to ignore the threats in the letter, saying that that is how religious wars started in countries like Nigeria.

“We shouldn’t forget that this is exactly how it started in Nigeria and other countries where Christians are butchered gravely,” he wrote.

“We must remember the fact that no nation was an Islamic state in the first place, but Muslims have been using such ungodly strategies and have managed to turn many states into Islamic states.”

In the memos, Mulinde calls for unity of all pastors in petitioning relevant government institutions, such as the Justice and Internal Affairs ministries and the Inspector General of Police for action on the threats to non-Muslims. Most pastors copied in the email supported the proposal and suggested more institutions to be petitioned, including the Uganda Human Rights Commission, Parliament, embassies in Uganda and the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU)

When contacted, Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Ibn Ssenkumbi said the case files are at Police headquarters. He referred The Observer to Police spokesman, Asumani Mugenyi. Mugenyi told The Observer yesterday that he was unaware of the alleged anonymous letters, but asked for time to cross check with the investigating officers.

He also revealed that the only person who had been arrested in connection with the attack on Mulinde had been released after police investigations showed that he was at his home at the time of the attack. Mugenyi further said the police had been given names of people involved in a land dispute with Mulinde and that investigations into these matters were still ongoing.
newseditor@observer.ug

Also see,

Pastor Umar Mulinde blinded by acid attack

http://www.newvision.co.ug/news/315067-pastor-umar-mulinde-blinded-by-acid-attack.html

Suspect in Pastor Mulinde acid attack arrested

http://www.newvision.co.ug/news/315086-Suspect-in-Pastor-Mulinde-acid-attack-arrested.html

Uganda Pentecostal pastors threaten to go to the streets to protest police allegation over Pastor Mulinde’s acid attack

http://watchmanafrica.blogspot.com/2012/01/uganda-pentecostal-pastors-threaten-to.html

Malawi's President Vows to Repeal Gay Ban

http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/malawis-president-vows-repeal-gay-ban-16375813#.T7yvyYFheCl

By DONNA BRYSON and RAPHAEL TENTHANI Associated Press 

BLANTYRE, Malawi May 18, 2012 (AP)

President Joyce Banda declared Friday she wants to repeal Malawi's laws against homosexual acts, going against a trend in Africa in which gays are being increasingly singled out for prosecution.

Banda, who assumed the presidency in April when her predecessor died, made the announcement in her first state of the nation address.

"Indecency and unnatural acts laws shall be repealed," she said. But repealing a law requires a parliamentary vote, and it is unclear how much political support Banda would have for sweeping changes in this impoverished and conservative nation in southern Africa.

Malawi had faced international condemnation for the conviction and 14-year prison sentences given in 2010 to two men who were arrested after celebrating their engagement and were charged with unnatural acts and gross indecency.

Then President Bingu wa Mutharika pardoned the couple on "humanitarian grounds only" while insisting they had "committed a crime against our culture, against our religion, and against our laws."

Mutharika died in office in April. Banda, who was vice president, stepped in to serve out his term which ends in 2014.

Elsewhere in her speech, Banda said her government wants to normalize relations with "our traditional development partners who were uncomfortable with our bad laws."

Banda's speech was applauded by human rights activists, but they cautioned getting the necessary backing from parliament won't be easy.

"The issue of homosexuality has been a contentious issue," said human rights activist Undule Mwakasungula. "Definitely it will raise controversy in parliament."

In South Africa, the only African country with laws protecting gay rights, activist Mark Heywood said Banda would have international support.

"I hope that she is persuasive enough in her own country," Heywood said.

South Africa's 1996 constitution bans discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. With the constitution's backing, activists have gone to court to ensure laws such as one banning sodomy were overturned. Gays have had the right to marry since 2006 but face discrimination and sometimes violence in South Africa.

"It's really important for other African countries other than South Africa to move in this direction," Heywood said of Banda's move. "Symbolically, I think it is very important for Africa."

In Uganda, lawmaker David Bahati introduced a bill in 2009 that proposed the death penalty for some homosexual acts. The bill drew a firestorm of international condemnation and has yet to become law. Homosexuality is already illegal in Uganda. After the bill was introduced, a Ugandan tabloid published a list of what it called Uganda's "top homos," including the name of a gay activist who was later killed in what some suspect was a hate crime.

Last year, Nigeria's Senate voted in favor of a bill that would criminalize gay marriage, gay advocacy groups and same-sex public displays of affection. Under a newly added portion of the bill, those found guilty of organizing, operating or supporting gay clubs, organizations and meetings could be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison.

Last month, an anti-gay group in Liberia distributed fliers with a hit list of people who support gay rights. Liberian lawmakers earlier in the year introduced two pieces of legislation that would make homosexuality punishable by possible jail time. Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, who won the Nobel Peace Prize this year, has vowed to preserve an existing law that makes "voluntary sodomy" a crime.

Also Friday, Banda said in her state of the nation address that she was appointing a commission of inquiry to look into when and how her predecessor Mutharika died, what medical attention he received and the "activities of various individuals during and in managing the transition."

After Mutharika died April 5, the government took two days to confirm his death and to allow Banda to step in. The delay had led to speculation that Banda's rivals were trying to prevent her from becoming president, even though the constitution decrees the vice president should take over.
Bryson reported from Johannesburg.

Comment
 

President Joyce Banda, an Adroit Politician! She Knows how to outmaneuver the West while consolidating local power. Wait, you will see her crisscrossing Western Capitals and hailed as a Human rights champion. A third and fourth term for her? Well, she can get it if she wants! 

 Kato Mivule

Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke coming to Kampala, June 6th -10th , 2012: Time for sound doctrine and repentance or for fake miracles, false impartations

Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke coming to Kampala, June 6^th -10^th , 2012: Time for sound doctrine and repentance or for fake miracles, false impartations

Prosperity pastors in Kampala are busy preparing for the crusades of Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke. The ministry of Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke revolves around prosperity, healings, signs and wonders. He is a great fun of Benny Hinn whose visits to Uganda have been mere embarrassments.

Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke’s visit to Uganda

http://www.bonnke.net/cfan/en/events/calendar          

Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke teachings examined in line with scripture

http://www.deceptioninthechurch.com/rbonnke.html       

http://www.deceptioninthechurch.com/bonnke3.html

Kony will be brought to justice – AFRICOM: But why did you take all that long and why now????

 

First Read:

Obama sends 100 US troops to Uganda to fight LRA: It is not what you think!!!

http://watchmanafrica.blogspot.com/2011/10/obama-sends-100-us-troops-to-uganda-to.html

AFRICOM Year Two:Seizing The Helm Of Africa

http://www.antipasministries.com/other/article026.htm

http://watchmanafrica.blogspot.com/2010/02/africom-year-twoseizing-helm-of-africa.html

 

Kony will be brought to justice – AFRICOM

http://www.newvision.co.ug/news/631227-631227-kony-will-be-brought-to-justice-africom.html

Publish Date: May 21, 2012

By Henry Mukasa

The Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) Gen. Carter F. Ham has stated that he is confident the Lord's Resistance Army chief, Joseph Kony will be brought to justice.

"I am confident Joseph Kony (LRA leader) will be brought to justice. I am not confident when it will happen,' Gen Ham remarked in an interview with New Vision.

'It is looking for a small group in a vast rugged area. The capture of Acellam is a good step. The questions that will be asked Acellam will help the forces learn about the status of LRA,' he pointed out. The US has contributed 100 special forces to help UPDF and other regional forces in the hunt for Kony.

The LRA field commander, Maj. Gen Caesar Acellam was captured recently by the UPDF on the banks of the River Mbou in the Central African Republic.

In the interview, Gen. Ham saluted the UPDF for the successes in efforts to stabilise Somalia and ridding Mogadishu of the Al Shabaab militants.

'There is no question that from a security point of view Somalia has improved. The Uganda people should be proud of the professionalism of the soldiers in Mogadishu,' Gen. Ham said .

"Uganda has provided the AMISOM force commander and the largest number of troops. They have been effective and brave. Sadly there were casualties who and their families should not be forgotten," he added.

Gen. Ham, who heads heads the US African Command based in Stuttgart - Germany was in the country to attend the conference of Land Forces Commanders of Africa that closed at Munyonyo on Friday.

On the conflict between Sudan and South Sudan, Gen. Ham insisted that the best way out is a negotiated settlement.

"There is no military solution to the conflict between the two. The US has sent a special envoy to seek opportunity for a peaceful solution. The challenge to the two nations is whether their actions match their words,' Gen. Ham explained. 

We don’t know where Kony is- US commander

By Tabu Butagira  

Posted  Sunday, May 20  2012 at  00:00

A week after the UPDF took into custody LRA field commander Caesar Acellam, believed to know the whereabouts of Joseph Kony, a top general of the US military
that is helping regional forces collate intelligence for the offensive against the rebel group, has revealed that they still have no clue about the location of one of the world’s most-wanted warlords.

“No, we don’t know where specifically he is,” Gen. Carter Ham, the US Africa Command (Africom) commander, said on Friday in response to a question from this newspaper about the likely location of Kony and the possibility of his capture.

He added: “If we did, then I am confident that all African nations that are involved in this mission would be successful in locating and bringing him to justice.”

The militaries of Uganda, South Sudan, Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of Congo – with technical assistance from about 100 US Special Forces deployed at four forward operating bases in the jungles as field military advisers - are engaged in a joint operation to capture or kill LRA commanders, including Kony, ostensibly to finish off the group.

Navy SEAL Gregory, the ground commander of the US Special Forces, told a group of visiting journalists in Obo, CAR, on April 29, that it was hard for regional armies to spot the elusive rebels in the surrounding copious vegetation, although Col. Joseph Balikuddembe who commands the Ugandan military said they last engaged the rebel fighters in March.

The LRA was considered a spent force following its expulsion by the UPDF from northern Uganda in 2005, but American NGO Invisible Children thrust it back on the world agenda in March, this year, when their slick 30-minute Kony 2012 video endorsed by global heavy-weight celebrities to raise awareness for his capture went viral on the Internet.

In the Friday interview at the US embassy in Nsambya, a Kampala suburb, Gen. Ham said: “I am confident that he (Kony) will be captured and brought to justice; I am not confident as to when that will happen.”

He gave an open-ended stay of the US Navy SEALS and Green Berets, deployed in October 2011, in the central Africa jungles, until the mission to remove LRA commanders from the battle field as ordered by President Obama is accomplished.

“We believe that our role is important and is contributing to the overall success of the mission… the four African countries [on the counter-LRA effort] still want our help, he said, “So we don’t have a certain date we will conclude.”
Gen. Ham declined to say if they may call in drones for targeted strikes on LRA leaders should their location be established - a military capability the US has employed with considerable success to eliminate commanders of radical groups elsewhere.
tbutagira@ug.nationmedia.com