MICHAEL N
Christians in Ntungamo District have been encouraged to uphold patriotism and love for their country as Uganda heads toward the forthcoming general elections.
The appeal was made during a one-day Patriotic and Prayer Conference held yesterday at Kyamate Playground. The event was organised by pastors under the Ntungamo Carda Pastors Association, bringing together clergy who recently completed a week-long patriotic training under the Uganda Police, district leaders from various departments, and representatives from other religious groups.
The conference aimed at strengthening patriotism among believers and dedicating Ntungamo Municipality—especially known hot-spot areas—to peace, security, and moral renewal.
Bishop Stempson Kamwesigye, Chairperson of the Ntungamo Carda Pastors Association, said the prayer gathering was intended to ensure peaceful campaigns and elections in the district. He noted that Ntungamo has previously been associated with electoral violence, and the prayers were meant to break any forces that could disrupt the electoral process.
He also highlighted that the leadership of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni ushered in freedom of worship, unlike past regimes under Idi Amin and Milton Obote, where religious and tribal divisions were influenced by political affiliations.
The Deputy Resident District Commissioner of Ntungamo, Rosemary Atuhaire, commended the pastors for their efforts in promoting peace, patriotism, and poverty alleviation among Christians.
The Guest of Honour, Col. Kafureeka Gumizamu, Commander of 401 Irega Barracks, urged pastors to consistently preach peace with the same zeal they use when spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He encouraged Christians to value and protect their lives, aligning with the NRM’s five-year mission of “Protecting the Gains.”
Col. Kafureeka also appealed to believers to reject bribery and corruption, saying such practices erode community values and hinder development. He encouraged civilians to report any police officers involved in corruption so that appropriate action can be taken, ensuring that the district remains peaceful and morally upright.
