The Minister for Internal Affairs, Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, has strongly condemned members of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) who have deviated 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 concern over the rising cases of corruption and abuse of power, which he said have tarnished the image of the government.
“It is very unfortunate that many NRM officials are straying from the principles that brought this government to power. Some are embroiled in corruption scandals, while others are seriously abusing human rights. Such actions paint a bad image of the government,” he said.
He criticized government officials who misappropriate funds intended for poverty alleviation programs, urging religious institutions to help combat poverty and promote unity among Ugandans.
“There are government programs designed to fight poverty, yet some NRM officials tasked with implementing them are the very ones swindling the funds meant to benefit citizens. I urge the church to preach the gospel of fighting poverty and to reject political divisions,” he added.
The fundraising event aimed to raise Shs140 million to settle claims on church land. By Sunday, at least Shs90 million had been collected, with Gen. Otafiire contributing Shs5 million and pledging further support to help meet the Shs50 million shortfall.
The minister’s presence was facilitated by Iganga Woman MP Sauda Alibaawo Kauma, who had been approached by church leaders for assistance in mobilizing funds.
Gen. Otafiire called on the church to support government efforts in promoting development and poverty eradication in Busoga. He urged religious leaders to foster unity and discourage political divisions, which he said undermine service delivery and good governance.
Church leaders expressed gratitude to Gen. Otafiire and MP Alibaawo for their support in securing the church land.