Summary:
President Museveni strongly condemned sectarianism, labeling its promoters as “false prophets” and “self-seekers driven by greed.”
NTUNGAMO: President Yoweri Museveni has issued a stern warning against individuals promoting religious-based sectarianism in the Kigezi Sub-Region, stating that they will face arrest, prosecution, and removal from leadership if concrete evidence is found against them.
Speaking at the State Lodge in Ntungamo District after a three-day tour assessing the impact of the Parish Development Model (PDM), Museveni addressed journalists from the region.
During the press conference, a journalist raised concerns about the increasing divisionism based on religious sectarianism, which threatens the success of the PDM program aimed at transitioning 39% of Uganda’s population from subsistence to the money economy.
In response, President Museveni strongly condemned sectarianism, labeling its promoters as “false prophets” and “self-seekers driven by greed.”
Addressing regional leaders in Rukungiri, he emphasized that sectarianism is illegal and carries serious consequences.
He instructed his aides to read Section 41 of the Penal Code Act, which stipulates that anyone found guilty of promoting sectarianism faces up to five years in prison.
Furthermore, the President revealed that he had personally ordered an investigation into the matter and vowed to take action against those found guilty of fueling religious divisions in Kigezi.
The Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, echoed the President’s sentiments, condemning political and religious leaders who engage in identity-based politics.
Minister Baryomunsi, who also serves as the Kinkiizi East MP in Kanungu District, urged the people of Kigezi to reject such leaders and called on the press to expose culprits involved in sectarian activities.
Similarly, the Minister of Security, Rtd. Maj. Gen. Jim Muhwezi, noted that sectarian politics was not confined to Kisoro alone but had also been reported in Greater Kabale District.
Minister Muhwezi, who is also the Rujumbura County MP in Rukungiri District, warned that dividing people along religious lines poses a serious threat to national security.
“When people are disunited, they can easily be infiltrated by the enemy. Therefore, this is a matter of national concern,” he stated during a press briefing.
Amidst these growing sectarian tensions, poverty levels in Kigezi continue to rise. Recent statistics show that the regional poverty rate has surged from 13.4% in the 2016/2017 financial year to 27% in 2019/2020, further exacerbating economic struggles in the area.
