President Museveni Urges Ugandans to Uphold Forgiveness and Reconciliation as Pillars of Unity

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged Ugandans to embrace forgiveness and reconciliation as vital foundations for national unity and development.

The President made the remarks today during the 27th National Prayer Breakfast held at State House, Entebbe, under the theme “The Power of Forgiveness and Reconciliation.” He commended the Parliament of Uganda for sustaining the prayer breakfast tradition, describing it as a unifying event that strengthens the nation through faith and reflection.

“Maama and I once attended the U.S. Prayer Breakfast, and we were told it began during wartime when people were not talking to each other,” the President recalled. “I am glad that you have sustained it and not abandoned it.”

President Museveni reflected on Uganda’s journey toward reconciliation, recalling his own experiences during the bush war. He recounted moments when he chose forgiveness over vengeance, including refusing to kill Gen. Oyite Ojok and declining to authorize the execution of Hon. Chris Rwakasisi, who later became a symbol of reconciliation.

“When I got the case about Chris, I went and prayed about it. The voice came: ‘No, do not sign it,’” he said. “Accountability is not always punitive, people can negotiate and make amends. Some thought I was naïve, but faith guided my decisions.”

The President also commended Hon. Rwakasisi for his testimony and Bishop JB Masinde for his powerful sermon on forgiveness, tolerance, and gratitude. He encouraged Ugandans to focus on positive aspects of their country’s progress.

“Even if there are bad things about your country, find the good things and talk about them,” Museveni said.

Delivering the closing prayer, the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, urged Ugandans to reflect on God’s mercy and renew their commitment to unity as the nation prepares to celebrate its 63rd Independence anniversary.

“This is a moment of gratitude to God for the miraculous way He has carried us through this year,” she said.

Drawing inspiration from the parable of the prodigal son, Hon Janet emphasised that God’s love and forgiveness remain central to healing families, communities, and the nation.

She expressed concern over persistent challenges such as corruption, tribalism, political strife, and disunity, which she said continue to divide African societies.

“Often, we are selfish and myopic. Corruption, political intrigue, and sectarianism only bring suffering to our people,” she warned.

The First Lady also prayed for peace in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, calling for African-led solutions to conflicts on the continent.

Citing 2 Corinthians 5:18–21, she reminded Ugandans that God has entrusted them with the ministry of reconciliation.

“May we as leaders show that we can disagree politically but remain united as Ugandans,” she added, calling for a spiritual awakening and revival to restore the nation’s moral and spiritual identity.

In a deeply emotional address, Hon. Chris Rwakasisi, who was pardoned by President Museveni in 2009 after years in prison, shared his personal journey of bitterness, repentance, and eventual reconciliation.

He admitted that during his imprisonment, he prayed for Museveni’s downfall until the Holy Spirit convicted him to forgive.

“The more I prayed for Museveni to die, the more he flourished. But when I changed my prayer from hate to love, things began to ease,” he said.

Rwakasisi narrated how his unconditional release marked true reconciliation.

“When we met, we embraced like lost brothers,” he said. “Forgiveness is not a favor — it is a command. Refusing to forgive is like drinking poison and hoping your enemy will die.”

He thanked the President for his consistent stand against capital punishment and conveyed inmates’ pleas for clemency.

“The inmates have asked me to request that you pardon them,” he said.

Bishop JB Masinde, the keynote speaker, emphasized that forgiveness begins with the words we speak, urging believers and leaders to use their tongues to heal rather than harm.

“The tongue holds the power to build or destroy relationships,” he said. “True reconciliation begins with humility and the willingness to speak peace.”

Deputy Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa said the message was particularly timely, especially after the NRM party’s challenging primary elections.

“The sermon resonated deeply,” Tayebwa said. “Forgiveness and reconciliation are essential to restoring relationships among leaders and strengthening national unity.”