Maj. Gen. Jim Muhwezi Katugugu, Uganda’s Minister for National Security and Member of Parliament for Rujumbura County, has urged journalists to expose leaders who promote identity politics and sectarianism, emphasizing the harmful effects of such divisive narratives on community cohesion.
His remarks came during the Kigezi Media Symposium, hosted by Ugandans Below the Age of 40 (UB40) at Rukungiri Inn, under the theme, “Encouraging Ugandans to Desist from Politics of Identity Through Awareness Creation by Information Managers.”
“Electing leaders is about choosing individuals who will serve everyone, not clan or religious representatives,” Minister Muhwezi stressed, expressing concern over the resurgence of identity politics in the Kigezi region, which he warns poses a national security risk by creating societal vulnerabilities.
Minister Muhwezi called on journalists to act as responsible advocates against divisive rhetoric, highlighting that media outlets have sometimes allowed platforms for identity-based politics and defamation. He cautioned that this trend could lead to serious legal consequences for journalists if standards of truth and fairness are not upheld. “The law could hold many accountable for unsubstantiated content, as media defamation has become too common,” he added.
Reflecting on Uganda’s post-independence era, Muhwezi cited the religious and ethnic divides fostered by political parties such as the Democratic Party (DP), Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), and Kabaka Yekka (KY). The National Resistance Movement (NRM), he noted, has worked to neutralize such divisions and foster national unity, achievements he urged the media to uphold.
Dr. Jude Katerega, President of UB40, explained that the symposium aims to engage journalists in countering the rise of identity politics in Kigezi. He expressed concern that such practices could deter promising leaders and hinder regional development, urging journalists to emphasize wealth creation initiatives in their profession to reduce susceptibility to financial influences.
Dr. Katerega also condemned journalists who use their platforms to defame others for personal gain, warning that such actions could lead to legal repercussions.
The Kigezi region has recently seen instances of identity-based politics, including a recent Kisoro NRM primary election where a religious figure was filmed urging voters to support a candidate based on shared religious beliefs. This has raised concern about the potential impact of identity politics on the region’s future.
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