Stakeholders in the Greater Kabale District have raised red flags over the growing politicization of religion, warning that it threatens national unity, democratic values and effective service delivery. They are calling for urgent reforms and collaborative efforts to restore integrity in both religious and political spheres.
This call was made during a high-level meeting held at Kirigime Guest House in Kabale Municipality under the Strengthening Citizens’ Engagement and Public Accountability (SCEPA) Project on Friday. The gathering brought together activists, civil society leaders, local authorities, and opinion leaders to formulate key recommendations aimed at curbing religious sectarianism and promoting transparency.
The meeting was organized by the Local Sustainable Communities Organization (LOSCO) in partnership with the Uganda National NGO Forum (UNNGOF), with support from the embassies of Denmark, Ireland, and Sweden.
Albert Taremwa, Executive Director of LOSCO, emphasized that the recommendations generated from the forum will be compiled and forwarded to relevant authorities for immediate consideration.
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Davis Akampurira, Executive Director of the Youth Elevation Initiative, pointed out that religion has become more involved in politics than in any other sector, thereby undermining service delivery. He urged the government to engage religious leaders on how to participate in elections peacefully and without influencing voters.
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Annitah Ninsiima, an officer at Kick Corruption out of Uganda, recommended intensive civic education to empower voters and eliminate religious-based bias during elections.
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Dorothy Kesiime Naturinda, the coordinator of Forum for Women in Democracy (FOWEDE), called on civil society organizations to amplify their advocacy and ensure communities are well-informed and active participants in democratic processes.
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Agnes Success, an opinion leader from Muhanga Town Council in Rukiga District, stressed the need to sensitize religious leaders against misleading their followers through partisan messages.
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Pamela Kembabazi, another participant from Rukiga District, criticized some churches for abandoning their spiritual missions in favor of aligning with politicians for financial gain.
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Ignatius Mwesigye, Speaker of Southern Division in Kabale Municipality, called for the clear separation of church and state. He further advocated for religious freedom, inclusivity, open dialogue, and respect for religious diversity to address the challenges collaboratively.
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Kigezi Region Police Spokesperson Elly Maate also weighed in, urging religious leaders to promote unity, harmony, and togetherness, and called for religious sectarianism to be condemned at all levels.
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