President Museveni calls for forgiveness and reconciliation as foundations of national unity

8 October 2025, 7:29 pm

By Edwin Okurmu Kisa

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged Ugandans to embrace forgiveness and reconciliation as key pillars for national unity and progress. Speaking at the 27th National Prayer Breakfast held at State House, Entebbe, under the theme “The Power of Forgiveness and Reconciliation,” the President commended Parliament for upholding the tradition of the annual gathering, which he said strengthens unity through faith and reflection.

Museveni recalled that the idea of a national prayer breakfast was inspired by the U.S. model that began during times of division, emphasizing that Uganda’s continued observance of it fosters national harmony. He thanked former minister Chris Rwakasisi for his testimony and Bishop JB Masinde for a message centered on forgiveness, tolerance, and gratitude.

Reflecting on his own experiences during the bush war, Museveni shared moments where he chose forgiveness over vengeance, including sparing former adversaries. “People thought I was naïve; that’s why you hear I started with twenty-seven guns. The NRA fight was an open fight not killing people, not poisoning people,” he said.

The President urged Ugandans to focus on positive aspects of the nation, adding, “Even if there are bad things about your country, find some good things and talk about them.”

The First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, led the closing prayer, calling on Ugandans to reflect on God’s mercy as the country marks 63 years of independence. She drew lessons from the parable of the prodigal son, noting that God’s love and forgiveness should inspire the nation to heal divisions caused by corruption, tribalism, and political strife.

“Whether it is corruption, disunity, or sectarianism all these serve to divide our communities and bring suffering to our people,” she said, urging Ugandans to seek reconciliation and peace. She also prayed for stability in conflict-hit regions such as Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, calling for African-led solutions.

The First Lady appealed to political leaders to demonstrate maturity and unity even amid competition. “May we as leaders lead by example and show that we can disagree politically but still remain united as Ugandans,” she said.

Former minister Chris Rwakasisi gave a moving testimony on forgiveness, recalling his imprisonment and eventual pardon by President Museveni in 2009. “Forgiveness is not a favor… Rather, forgiveness is a command,” he said. Rwakasisi narrated how his hatred turned into prayer for Museveni’s wellbeing, which brought him peace and ultimately led to reconciliation.

Bishop JB Masinde, the keynote speaker, reminded the gathering that forgiveness begins with words, urging citizens and leaders to use speech as a tool for healing rather than division. Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa described the message as timely, especially following the NRM party’s recent primaries, saying it reinforced the need for unity among leaders and citizens.

The event concluded with a call for national reflection and spiritual renewal, emphasizing that forgiveness and reconciliation remain the bedrock of Uganda’s peace and progress.