Of late, mainstream and social media platforms have been awash with stories and testimonies alleging that some Pentecostal pastors perform “fake miracles” to defraud vulnerable and desperate people.

The allegations, brought into the spotlight by social commentator and activist Frank Gashumba, have sparked widespread debate and public outcry, with many questioning the need for stricter screening of church leaders, greater accountability, and transparency regarding what happens during religious gatherings.

One of Uganda’s most outspoken charismatic pastors is Martin Ssempa, the founder of Makerere Community Church. He has long been critical of alleged fake miracles and financial exploitation within Uganda’s Born-Again Pentecostal movement.

For decades, Ssempa has challenged some of his fellow evangelical leaders, calling for structural accountability, stricter regulation, and greater transparency within the religious sector.

Appearing on this episode of The Grind with Patrick Kamara, Ssempa, who holds an honorary doctorate in Divinity, argues that a significant number of modern ministries have degenerated into commercial enterprises rather than remaining spiritual sanctuaries.

However, Kamara challenges Ssempa to examine his own record, suggesting that he, too, has faced controversy. Ssempa acknowledges that he is not perfect and reflects on a previous court case in which he was found guilty. He describes the experience as unfortunate, arguing that the case was mishandled and that he was not given a fair trial or adequate opportunity to present his defence