The National Unity Platform (NUP) party’s year-end prayers held at Makerere Kavule witnessed an unexpected absence of Uganda’s religious leaders. The interreligious council deliberately declined the invitation to attend the prayers, which were intended to offer solace to families affected by alleged abduction, and imprisonment, all due to the ongoing support of NUP leader Bobi Wine for the LGBTQI community. This steadfast support has been a point of contention with the church, leading to the decision of religious leaders to abstain from these prayers.
Rev. Sam Katasya, representative of the interreligious council, stated their reason for not attending, saying, “While we cannot overlook sin that aims to undermine Uganda’s future, we are unable to participate in prayers organized by a political party that promotes homosexuality, an act against the tenets of the Bible.”
He further emphasized the need for Bobi Wine to be honest about his stance on homosexuality in Uganda and make it clear to the world that same-sex marriage is not permitted in the country.
In response to the absence of religious leaders, President of the NUP party, Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), conveyed his disappointment.
“We extended our invitation to them, hoping they would come and join in prayer. Today, we pray for them too, as it is disheartening that while we come together to pray for victims of human rights abuses, those who were meant to stand with us have declined our invitation,” said Bobi Wine.
Despite the absence of religious leaders, the NUP carried on with their year-end prayers as planned. Party members in attendance utilized the occasion to petition for the release of political prisoners, demand an end to human rights violations, and pray for a brighter future for Uganda.
The refusal of religious leaders to participate in the NUP’s prayers underscores the deep divisions prevailing in Ugandan society regarding LGBTQI rights. The church has taken a firm stance against LGBTQI rights, and their decision to boycott this event can be seen as a reflection of their disapproval of Bobi Wine’s support for the community.
The NUP’s unwavering backing of the LGBTQI community has made them a target for religious leaders, and it is likely that the party will continue to face opposition from the church and other religious groups.
