Kampala: Religious leaders backed up by a section of politicians has petitioned the Constitutional Court over continuous closure of places of worship seeking a declaration of Rules 11 and 13 of the Public Health (Control of Covid-19) Rules unconstitutional.
Among those cited in the petition include; Kiganda Michael, Evelyne Naikoba, Dr Zedriga Lina Waru, Hon Alice Alaso, Hon Ronald Balimwezo Nsibuga, Semakula Asuman Lule and Bishop Mugabbi Livingstone.
According to petitioners, the continued lockdown of places of worship under these rules while other public spaces continue to operate is in contravention of Articles 21, 29(1)(c), 45 and 286 of the 1995 Constitution.
Meanwhile, the constitutional court has listened to their outcry and tasked the Attorney General to respond to their petition within ten days.
'''Take notice that Kiganda Micheal and Evelyne Naikoba have filled a petition against you in this court. You are hereby required to file an answer within 10 days after the petition has been served to you. Should you fail to fail an answer, before the date above mentioned, the petitioner may proceed with the petition which may be determined in your absence,'' reads Court notice.
President Museveni in June announced the closure of places of worship following the upsurge of COVID-19 cases in the East African country that was facing the second wave of the pandemic.
Museveni in a televised address said all churches and mosques in the country would be closed for 42 days before announcing further closure for 60 days.