EDITOR
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on the Muslim community in Kisoro District and across Uganda to champion unity, peace, and harmony beyond religious and political boundaries, emphasizing that such cooperation is vital for sustainable development and national stability.
His message was delivered by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, during the inauguration ceremony of the new Kisoro District Kadhi, Sheikh Ali Mwesigye, held at Kisoro Hill Primary School playground.
In his remarks, President Museveni applauded the Muslim community for their patriotism and continued contribution to Uganda’s progress. He reiterated the government’s commitment under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) to implement programs that promote wealth creation and job opportunities to improve livelihoods.
The President advised smallholder farmers in Kisoro to invest in coffee and other cash crops to increase household incomes and reduce poverty. He cautioned against encroaching on wetlands, urging farmers to adopt environmentally sustainable practices that preserve Uganda’s natural resources.
“Ugandans should engage in productive ventures that contribute to the national economy, rather than working merely for survival,” the President’s message read in part.
President Museveni further commended the Muslim community for their loyalty and support toward government programs, describing them as patriotic citizens who have played a key role in maintaining peace and development. He also urged the newly installed Kadhi to serve all people fairly and without discrimination based on religion or political affiliation.
Delivering the message, Rt. Hon. Tayebwa echoed the President’s call for unity, morality, and cooperation among religious communities, stressing that Uganda’s progress depends on shared values and integrity. He also announced that President Museveni is scheduled to visit Kisoro on November 24 to engage residents on sustaining the gains made under the NRM government.
Tayebwa encouraged voters to support NRM flag bearers, noting that even independents who emerged from party primaries should remain aligned with the party’s vision. He also appealed to police and Resident District Commissioners to allow opposition politicians to campaign freely, emphasizing that political tolerance is essential for peace and democracy.
The Mufti of Uganda, His Eminence Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, who presided over the ceremony, thanked President Museveni for his unwavering support to the Muslim community. He urged district kadhis to promote unity and peace, and encouraged imams to register and benefit from the SACCO initiative promised by the President.
The newly inaugurated Kisoro District Kadhi, Sheikh Ali Mwesigye, who has been serving in an acting capacity since 2022, pledged to strengthen unity and cooperation among Muslims in Kisoro. He also vowed to work closely with government initiatives aimed at eradicating poverty and enhancing social development.
Kisoro Resident District Commissioner Hajji Badru Ssebyala called for calm and stability as the country prepares for the upcoming elections, reaffirming that President Museveni remains the right leader to continue guiding the district’s development journey.
The ceremony attracted a large congregation of Muslims from across the Kigezi Sub-region, religious leaders from other faiths, and prominent political figures including Bufumbira South MP Alex Niyonsaba Seruganda, Woman MP Grace Akifeza, and Kisoro District LC V Chairperson Abel Bizimana, among others.
