BY JOACKIM KULE
The community in Kasese district has been challenged to maintain peace and embrace love for one another despite their religious affiliations.
The Challenge was sounded today by Rev. Ezra Mukonzo Yongeza, the Rwenzori Regional Coordinator for the Interreligious Council of Uganda, who also doubles as the Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu Minister in-charge of Religious Affairs while addressing the Muslim faithful who had gathered at Kasese Main Mosquein Kasese town for the Eid Al-Fitr prayers.
Rev. Mukonzo explained that both the Bible and Quran put in clear that the blessed are the peacemakers since they shall be children of God.
According to him, the people who disrupt peace limit their fellows from progressing in their programs, adding that the absence of people also leads to underdevelopment and sometimes loss of lives.
In his preaching, Sheikh Abdul Yahaya Muchika observed need for the Muslims to embrace the practice of helping the needy and abiding by the teachings of the Quran. He also urged the parents to nurture their children in a manner that would enable them to become good citizens in the communities that they live.
Sheikh Musa Sadiki Baluku, the Kasese District Khadhi, encouraged the Muslim faithful to maintain their reputation in their respective communities.
In his remarks, the Kasese Municipality Member of Parliament, Hon. Ferigo Kambale, urged the Muslim community to support government programmes that are geared towards poverty eradication and infrastructural development.
He used the same platform to discourage the people especially NRM supporters from being divided because of their political interests.
On her part, the Kasese District NRM flag bearer for Woman Parliamentary seat, Mrs. Sarah Ithungu Baleke, encouraged the Muslim community to support the fight against early marriages, defilement and other forms of violence against children that are reportedly on an increase in the district.
She used the same podium to call upon the mothers to prioritize good parenting and feeding as the only way to address the challenge of malnutrition that the district is grappling with.
In his special message to the Muslims, the Rwenzururu King, Omusinga Charles Wesley Mumbere Iremangoma, said was happy with government for respecting all religions through giving them the opportunity to celebrate their special days.
According to him, the Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu cherishes all religions, a reason why it has created a fully fledged Ministry of Religious Affairs.
ENDS