Gideon Tumwijukye | Tayari News
KABALE – Muslim believers in Kabale District have called on the government to consider including members of their community in the upcoming cabinet, citing what they describe as years of underrepresentation in top leadership positions. After winning the January Presidential Election, President-elect Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is expected to be sworn in in May and make changes in his cabinet.
The appeal was made earlier today during Eid al-Fitr prayers held at Masjid Jemiah Kirigime Mosque, where hundreds of faithful gathered in a spirit of celebration, gratitude, and reflection to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
Delivering his message shortly after the prayers, the Kabale District Moslem Chairman, Hajji Isa Tindyebwa, commended the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government for maintaining relative peace, security, and stability across the country. He noted that such an environment has enabled communities, including Muslims, to engage in social and economic development.
However, Hajji Tindyebwa expressed concern that despite the Muslim community’s continued support for government programs and its active participation in national development, it remains largely excluded from key decision-making positions, particularly at the cabinet level. He emphasised that inclusion in top leadership would not only promote fairness but also ensure that the interests and perspectives of Muslims are adequately represented.
“We have many capable, educated, and experienced individuals within our community who can effectively serve this country if entrusted with leadership responsibilities,” he said. “It is important that the government considers inclusivity when making such appointments so that all Ugandans feel represented.”
He further urged Muslim youth to prioritize education, discipline, and patriotism, noting that preparing the next generation for leadership begins with investing in knowledge and values. He also called for continued unity among Muslims, stressing that a united voice would strengthen their advocacy for representation.
The Eid celebrations were also attended by several political leaders and local authorities, including the Kabale District Woman Member of Parliament-elect, Enid Origumisiriza. In her remarks, she congratulated the Muslim community upon completing the fasting period and urged believers to uphold the values of compassion, generosity, and forgiveness.
Origumisiriza particularly emphasized the importance of reconciliation following the recently concluded general elections. She noted that elections often create divisions within communities, families, and political groups, but encouraged residents to use the Eid period as a time for healing and rebuilding trust.
“Eid is a time to forgive one another and move forward in unity. Let us put aside political differences and focus on development and harmony within our communities,” she said.
Also speaking at the event was the Member of Parliament–elect for Ndorwa West, Eliab Naturinda Mporera, who applauded the Muslim community for their resilience and strong entrepreneurial culture. He noted that many Muslims in Kabale are actively engaged in small and medium enterprises, which continue to play a vital role in boosting the local economy.
Naturinda encouraged other residents, especially the youth, to emulate this spirit by embracing hard work, innovation, and participation in income-generating activities. He stressed that economic empowerment at the household level is key to improving livelihoods and reducing poverty in the district.
“As leaders, we must support initiatives that empower our people economically, but individuals must also take the initiative to work hard and utilize available opportunities,” he added.