Kampala — THE elect bishop of the Catholic Apostolic National Church of Uganda, a break-away sect, said he has received overwhelming support from priests and Christians worldwide.

Leonard Lubega said the church did not want to fight any religion, and was simply welcoming willing converts.

"I can confidently tell you that one Catholic bishop from one of the African states will join our church and is willing to open a branch in that country," Lubega said, without naming the bishop or his country.

Lubega was presenting his registration papers for verification to the Jinja deputy resident district commissioner, Apollo Bwebale, on Wednesday.

He added that he was glad that the Government accepted freedom of worship as provided for in the Constitution.

Bwebale said he was willing to work with priests and other religious leaders to promote government programmes, especially in the education and health sectors.

He criticised religious leaders who bar their followers from attending school and receiving medical attention.

The Catholic Apostolic National Church has over 10,000 followers and 25 priests countrywide.

The church's archbishop, Lunciano Mbewe Anzanga, is expected to visit Uganda early this year to ordain 10 priests.