Bishop Sanctus Lino Wanok Elected New Chairman of Uganda Episcopal Conference

By Flavia Oyuu, Communications Office, Lira Diocese

The Bishop of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, has been elected Chairman of the Uganda Episcopal Conference, placing him at the helm of the national body that brings together Catholic bishops in Uganda.

The leadership changes follow the annual plenary assembly of Catholic bishops held in Kampala, according to information from the Uganda Catholic Secretariat.

Under the new leadership arrangement, Archbishop of Mbarara, Most Rev. Lambert Bainomugisha, has been elected Vice-Chairman, while Bishop Wanok takes over the chairmanship from the Bishop of Kiyinda-Mityana Diocese, Rt. Rev. Joseph Anthony Zziwa.

Before his election, Bishop Wanok served as Vice-Chairman of the Uganda Episcopal Conference.

His election has been received with excitement and celebration within Lira Diocese, where the faithful and clergy are sharing in the joy of seeing their Bishop entrusted with an additional responsibility at the national level of the Catholic Church.

The appointment comes at a particularly significant time for Lira Diocese as Bishop Wanok prepares to mark 40 years of priesthood on November 27, 2026. The anniversary will coincide with the Lira Diocese Men’s Run, an initiative aimed at raising awareness about prostate cancer.

As Chairman, Bishop Wanok will take on a new responsibility in guiding the work of the Uganda Episcopal Conference, which provides a platform for Catholic bishops to address matters concerning the Church’s mission, pastoral work and engagement with society in Uganda.

His election marks an important moment for Lira Diocese and an additional chapter in his service to the Catholic Church. The Diocese joins the wider Catholic community in wishing him wisdom and grace as he takes on this national responsibility.

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