Inter-Religious Council of Uganda calls for Peaceful and Inclusive Elections
Greetings from the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) in the name of God, the Most Gracious and Merciful, Creator of the Universe and all within it.
The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) has observed with concern a growing trend among certain voices, both within faith communities and in the wider public, to make partisan pronouncements in the lead-up to the 2026 elections. While every citizen enjoys the right to vote and to express an opinion, IRCU emphasizes that when public voices urge support for particular candidates or parties on religious or identity grounds, they risk dividing communities, weakening national cohesion, and undermining the credibility of our democracy.
Sectarianism has no place in Uganda’s future. As faith leaders united under IRCU, we affirm that our pulpits, mosques, and temples must be sanctuaries of unity, justice, and peaceful coexistence. History shows that whenever religion is politicized, peace is endangered and communities suffer. We call on all leaders and citizens to use their influence wisely, speaking words that heal the nation and strengthen its bonds.
As the umbrella body bringing together Uganda’s faith traditions, IRCU reaffirms its non-partisan mandate. In Proverbs 11:14 the Bible says: “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but many advisors make victory sure.” Our role as faith leaders is to provide moral guidance, foster unity, and safeguard the dignity of all Ugandans regardless of religious, ethnic and political affiliation. We issue this statement to reiterate our position, to caution against politicization of the pulpit, and to call all actors to uphold peace, integrity, and inclusiveness throughout the electoral process.
Read More…https://www.ircu.or.ug/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IRCU-statement-18-09-2025.pdf