KIGEZI — As part of activities to mark International Democracy Day, Kigezi Media Services, in partnership with the Regional Electoral Officer for the South Western Region, has organized a public dialogue to address the growing concern of religion-based politics in the Kigezi sub-region.
The dialogue will be held on Thursday, September 18, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, and will be broadcast live on the Kigezi TV YouTube channel to enable broader participation beyond the physical venue.The event comes in the wake of rising cases where voters in the region are reportedly choosing leaders based on religious affiliation a trend that was particularly visible during the recent NRM party primaries.
Organizers say this undermines democratic values and threatens to entrench sectarian divisions in the community.
The dialogue will bring together electoral stakeholders, religious leaders, political actors, civil society representatives, youth leaders, and the general public** to openly discuss the implications of sectarianism and explore practical solutions.
Norbert Ndyamuhakyi, CEO of Kigezi Television, said the initiative is meant to bridge the gap between leaders and citizens while sensitizing the public on the importance of issue-based politics.
“This dialogue is aimed at promoting civic awareness and encouraging informed participation in the upcoming 2026 general elections. It will also address the dangers of religious-based politics that are eating up the Kigezi sub-region,” Ndyamuhakyi said.
Robert Beine, the Regional Electoral Officer for the South Western Region, stressed the importance of the session, saying it will play a key role in shaping democratic culture in the region.“It’s crucial to host this dialogue because it provides a platform to educate and create awareness among the public about their civic responsibilities.
Eliminating the negative effects of religious bias in political decision-making is essential for building a stronger democracy,” Beine said.
According to organizers, the discussions will focus on fostering peaceful political participation, strengthening issue-based campaigns, and promoting inclusive democracy where leaders are elected based on competence, vision, and service delivery rather than religious affiliation.
The public is encouraged to tune in live via the Kigezi TV YouTube channel and take part in the national conversation on building a more united and democratic society ahead of the 2026 General Elections
