Wakiso District Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Sheikh Kassim Kamugisha has called on Ugandans to reject religious divisions, warning that such divisions threaten the country’s progress. Speaking at the wedding reception of Gloria and Bosco at St. Andrews Church of Uganda in Kabale Municipality yesterday, Kamugisha emphasized that religion should be a force for unity rather than division.
“Religion has the power to unite families, communities, and our nation. Unfortunately, some are using it to divide us, and this is hindering local development,” he said.
Kamugisha expressed concern over the rising trend of religious and identity-based divisions in Kabale Municipality, which, he claimed, have obstructed government programs. He specifically pointed to the loss of key development projects, attributing it to political opposition, saying the area had missed out on several government initiatives due to the current opposition Member of Parliament.
He further urged the residents of Kabale Municipality to look beyond identity politics and instead focus on growth and development for all. “If this trend continues, Kabale could face a five-year drought in government-backed initiatives,” Kamugisha warned, referencing his efforts in championing the Emyooga Program, a government scheme aimed at boosting incomes and fighting poverty.
Adding her voice to the message, Kabale District parliamentary hopeful Immaculate Kagwa echoed Kamugisha’s concerns, cautioning against the dangers of tribalism and identity-based politics. “Poverty doesn’t know religious, tribal, or national boundaries. It affects us all, and we must stand together to fight it,” she said, urging the community to prioritize economic interests over divisions.
Kamugisha and Kagwa’s comments align with President Museveni’s call for Ugandans to embrace interest-based politics and avoid falling into the traps of identity-based divisions. The call for unity and cooperation comes at a critical time as communities across the country face challenges of poverty, unemployment, and underdevelopment.
The message from the leaders has resonated with many in the area, with hopes that it will spark a renewed focus on unity and collective progress for Kabale Municipality.
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