A Wake-Up Call: Religious Polarization Threatens Democracy in Kigezi
In a bold stand against religious sectarianism, civil society organizations in Kigezi Sub-region are raising the alarm over its detrimental impact on the ongoing electoral process. This alarming trend, they argue, poses a grave threat to the very foundations of democracy and competent governance.
During a joint briefing, Daniel Eguma, Executive Director of the Kigezi Human Rights Foundation, and Robert Kakuru, CEO of Kick Corruption Out of Uganda, urged residents to look beyond religious affiliations when casting their votes. Kakuru highlighted the worrying practice of religious leaders rallying their followers to support candidates solely based on faith, disregarding policy positions and competence.
"This trend, if left unchecked, could rob citizens of the opportunity to elect leaders capable of driving much-needed development in the region," Kakuru emphasized.
Eguma criticized the Electoral Commission (EC) for what he deemed inadequate efforts to curb this vice. He argued that limited voter awareness has allowed sectarian tendencies to flourish, and stressed the need for comprehensive civic education to empower citizens with the knowledge of their rights in the electoral process.
The political establishment is not immune to these concerns. Edison Turyahabwa, the NRM party publicity secretary for Kabale District, acknowledged that religious polarization is eroding the party's support base in the region. He called for urgent intervention, appealing to President Yoweri Museveni to address the issue.
Responding to these concerns, Julius Mucunguzi, spokesperson for the Electoral Commission, reiterated that religious sectarianism is illegal under Ugandan law. He emphasized the importance of continuous civic and voter education, not just during election periods. "The Uganda Human Rights Commission and the Electoral Commission have distinct roles in this regard, but civic awareness is a collective responsibility," Mucunguzi said.
Faith-based organizations have also pledged to intensify their efforts. Rev. Fr. Balthazar Ndyomugabe, Director of the Justice and Peace Commission for Kabale Diocese, stated that the church will ramp up civic education campaigns across communities. "Religious sectarianism is a symptom of low civic awareness. Addressing poverty and empowering communities is key to reducing these divisions," he explained.
Civil society groups, political leaders, and religious institutions are united in their call for coordinated action to prevent sectarianism from influencing the electoral process. They warn that inaction could lead to the erosion of democratic participation and social cohesion in the Kigezi Sub-region. The question remains: Will their efforts be enough to counter this divisive trend? What are your thoughts on this critical issue? Feel free to share your insights in the comments below!
