By The Minister for Internal Affairs, Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, has issued a stern rebuke to members of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) who have strayed from the party’s founding principles by engaging in corruption and human rights violations.
Speaking at a fundraising event at St. Peter’s Church of Uganda in Kasokoso, Iganga Central Division, on Sunday, Gen. Otafiire expressed deep concern over the increasing cases of corruption and abuse of power, which he said have severely tarnished the government’s reputation.
“It is deeply regrettable that some NRM officials are deviating from the core values that brought this government into power. Many are implicated in corruption scandals, while others are engaging in serious human rights violations. These actions reflect poorly on the government,” he stated.
The minister particularly criticized government officials who misappropriate funds allocated for poverty alleviation programs, emphasizing the need for religious institutions to take an active role in eradicating poverty and promoting national unity.
“The government has initiated several programs aimed at combating poverty, yet some of the very individuals entrusted with implementing these initiatives are embezzling the funds intended to benefit ordinary citizens. I urge the church to play a role in the fight against poverty and to resist political divisions that threaten national progress,” he added.
Support for Church Fundraising Initiative
The fundraising event aimed to raise Shs140 million to settle claims on church-owned land. By the end of the event, at least Shs90 million had been raised, with Gen. Otafiire personally contributing Shs5 million and pledging further support to help meet the remaining Shs50 million shortfall.
His participation was facilitated by Iganga Woman MP Sauda Alibaawo Kauma, who had been approached by church leaders seeking assistance in mobilizing funds.
Call for Unity and Development
Gen. Otafiire urged the church to collaborate with the government in advancing development initiatives and poverty eradication efforts in Busoga. He also called on religious leaders to promote unity and social cohesion, warning that political divisions undermine effective service delivery and good governance.
In response, church leaders expressed their appreciation for the minister’s and MP Alibaawo’s support, acknowledging their contributions towards securing the church’s land and promoting community development.
This statement underscores Gen. Otafiire’s continued commitment to addressing corruption and advocating for ethical governance within the ruling party, as well as fostering collaboration between religious institutions and the government in pursuit of national development.
