STAFF REPORTER
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has spoken out strongly against sectarianism, calling it a dangerous and divisive force as he campaigned for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate, Rose Kabagyeni, in the Kisoro District Woman Member of Parliament by-election. Addressing a large crowd at Muramba Primary School in Muramba Sub-County and later at Saaza Grounds in Kisoro Municipality, the President presented the NRM flag to Kabagyeni, endorsing her as the party’s official candidate.
The President’s remarks were prompted by a report highlighting growing religious sectarianism in the by-election, presented by Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, NRM Vice Chairperson for Western Uganda and Minister of Information, Communication, Technology, and National Guidance, along with NRM Treasurer Jackline Kyatuheire. President Museveni emphasized that those promoting sectarianism were working against the values of the NRM and jeopardizing the region’s development.
Describing sectarian behavior as criminal under the Ugandan Constitution, Museveni recounted his efforts to curb these divisive acts. He said he had personally reached out to NRM Chairman for Kisoro, Dr. Philemon Mateke, Bishop Callist Rubaramira of Kabale Diocese, and Bishop Godfrey Mbitse of Muhabura Diocese, urging them to speak against the rising sectarianism. He also addressed concerns of vote rigging raised during the NRM primary elections, asking those with evidence to come forward for a thorough investigation.
“Religious and tribal sectarianism, along with vote rigging, are not just wrong but are crimes,” Museveni declared, calling on local leaders and residents to reject such practices and focus on progress and unity.
Dr. Mateke confirmed the presence of sectarianism in the region and committed to fighting it. “We will actively condemn and combat this issue,” he vowed.
NRM candidate Rose Kabagyeni expressed her appreciation for the President’s support, promising to uphold and implement the NRM manifesto to advance development in Kisoro District. “I am honored by the endorsement and am committed to bringing tangible progress to our people,” Kabagyeni said.
Kabagyeni is running against a competitive slate of candidates, including Salim Sultana of the National Unity Platform (NUP), Aisha Cyimpaye of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Juliet Musanase of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), and Mable Ingabire of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC). The by-election, scheduled for November 14, 2024, comes after the passing of former Woman MP and State Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi, in September. The race is expected to be highly contested, with all candidates campaigning vigorously.
