President Yoweri Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) leader, has called for unity and condemned sectarianism in the lead-up to the Kisoro by-election, set for November 14, 2021.
During a campaign rally for NRM candidate Rose Kabagyeni at Murungu village in Muramba sub-county, Museveni emphasized the dangers of divisive sectarianism, likening it to the tensions that led to Rwanda’s tragic genocide.
“I spoke with Dr. Philemon Mateke about the dangers of sectarianism, which can fuel violence as seen in Rwanda,” Museveni told the gathering. “It’s crucial that Kisoro rejects such divisions for the region’s development.”
The president, who has frequently warned against ethnic and religious divisions, urged voters to prioritize candidates based on their contributions to the community, not sectarian allegiances.
Museveni also announced that he had engaged with religious leaders to unite against the harmful effects of sectarianism.
“Rwanda’s conflicts were rooted in sectarianism, and we must not let this divide us here,” he said. “If you want Kisoro to develop, reject these divisions.”
In her address, Kabagyeni echoed the president’s call for unity, pledging to work towards bridging divides within Kisoro if elected. She thanked President Museveni for his support and promised to adhere to his vision for the region’s growth.
With six candidates vying for the Kisoro woman MP seat, the by-election is shaping up to be a closely contested race. Campaigns officially ended on Tuesday.
