MIRACLE WAR ERUPTS: Gashumba Raises Bet to SHS500M, Challenges Pastors to Heal the Sick

Frank Gashumba has questioned why pastors, apostles and prophets who claim to possess extraordinary healing powers continue to operate near hospitals where patients still die despite the presence of their churches and miracle centres.

Gashumba’s remarks have reignited debate about faith healing, the role of religious leaders and the extent to which some churches make claims about miraculous interventions in Uganda.

In a statement circulating on social media, Gashumba challenged what he described as “powerful” pastors, apostles and prophets to demonstrate their alleged healing abilities by treating sick people without relying on conventional medical care.

He reportedly increased his financial challenge from Shs200 million to Shs500 million, insisting that the money would be paid in cash to any religious leader capable of proving the healing claims he was questioning. Gashumba also argued that some churches should be viewed as businesses rather than purely religious institutions, accusing certain religious leaders of using claims of miracles to influence and manipulate their followers.

He questioned why believers who are encouraged to have faith in miraculous healing still seek treatment in hospitals, while churches and prayer centres claiming to have healing powers continue to operate in the same communities.

The businessman and public commentator further criticised what he portrayed as a contradiction in the lifestyles of some prominent religious leaders and their followers.

According to Gashumba, some pastors and prophets who tell their followers that they are protected by the blood of Jesus are themselves surrounded by substantial security arrangements and high-end vehicles.

Visit UHRC Sponsored He contrasted this with the situation of ordinary followers, saying some believers struggle to afford basic transportation while their religious leaders move around with security escorts and expensive vehicles.

Gashumba maintained that medical doctors are the people who should be trusted to treat and manage illnesses, warning followers against what he described as false claims made by self-proclaimed prophets and miracle workers.

“You false prophets have successfully manipulated your reasoning,” Gashumba said in the statement, according to the remarks circulating online.

He also rejected the idea of blindly following religious leaders, saying he does not want to be treated as a “sheep” who accepts every claim made by a pastor, apostle or prophet without questioning it.

The controversy has since attracted additional commentary, with another individual reportedly adding Shs20 million to Gashumba’s challenge and urging people to identify pastors, prophets or apostles willing to take up the offer.

The combined challenge, if honoured as stated, would raise the amount at stake to Shs520 million.

Gashumba’s comments, however, represent his position and allegations rather than an established finding that all churches or religious leaders operate as businesses or that all claims of faith healing are fraudulent.

Uganda has a large Christian population and numerous churches, prayer centres and ministries where believers seek spiritual guidance and healing. At the same time, medical professionals and public-health authorities routinely encourage people with serious illnesses to seek appropriate medical diagnosis and treatment.

The debate triggered by Gashumba’s challenge therefore touches on a broader question: where should the line be drawn between religious faith, claims of miraculous healing and evidence-based medical treatment?

For now, Gashumba’s Shs500 million cash challenge has placed Uganda’s self-proclaimed miracle workers under renewed public scrutiny, while the additional Shs20 million has increased the financial stakes for any religious leader willing to accept the challenge.

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