The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda, Tooro Region, has called for peaceful elections, urging citizens to prioritize unity and good leadership ahead of the upcoming polls. Speaking during a service at St. John’s Cathedral in Fort Portal City on Sunday, the Bishop of Ruwenzori Diocese, Rt. Rev. Reuben Kisembo, who also chairs the Tooro Inter-Religious Council, emphasized that elections should not be a “do or die” affair leading to bloodshed.
Instead, he said, citizens should use the process to choose God-fearing leaders capable of delivering quality services. Bishop Kisembo revealed that religious leaders from different faiths in the region recently met and agreed to dedicate prayers for peace across the country. They also resolved to move from one church and mosque to another, preaching messages of harmony and tolerance.
The bishop led a team of religious leaders including Sheikh Swaib Tibenda from the Muslim community, Sheikh Bruhan Kyensi, Secretary General of the Muslim Supreme Council, Sister Sylvia Karungi representing Bishop Robert Muhirwa of Fort Portal Catholic Diocese, and representatives from the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Bishop Kisembo outlined several key issues the Council wants addressed during the electoral period, including vote rigging and bribery, respect by security forces towards all candidates, and transparency by the Electoral Commission in announcing results.
He further cautioned citizens not to lose hope if their preferred candidates are unsuccessful, urging them to avoid violence and accept the outcomes peacefully. He also warned against politicians using hate speech or spreading false information to incite the public and advised media houses to report objectively. Last week, members of the Inter-Religious Council held joint prayers at Kabarole Main Mosque to pray for peaceful elections.
***URN***