Kampala, Uganda – Minister of Internal Affairs, Maj. Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, on Wednesday, 17th September, convened a high-level meeting at the Office of the President in Kampala to review the progress of the government’s peacebuilding and counterterrorism initiatives. The meeting focused on the theme: “For review of the success of the peacebuilding campaign on fighting terrorism, radicalism, extremism/Drug trafficking, strengthening the bridge between security organs and sharing the achievements of HE the President Museveni.”
The session brought together Muslim leaders from various regions across Uganda, who expressed their support for President Museveni ahead of the 2026 elections. The meeting also revisited the 2022 “Islam is Not Terrorism” campaign spearheaded by Otafiire and the Counterterrorism Unit, which sought to correct misconceptions linking Islam with terrorism, particularly in the aftermath of attacks by extremist groups such as the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF).
Otafiire praised the campaign’s success in transforming public perceptions of Muslims. “We have eliminated the notion that Muslims are terrorists. This campaign was essential to protect innocent communities and to ensure that radical elements are identified without unfairly targeting an entire faith,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of proper investigative procedures in law enforcement. “Detaining people first and releasing them later due to lack of evidence undermines trust in our security institutions. Every action by security agencies must be guided by fairness and professionalism,” Otafiire stressed.
During the meeting, the minister reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Muslim communities. He announced initiatives including providing transportation for Muslim leaders to attend religious events and financing some community members to perform the Hajj pilgrimage.
One participant noted, “Minister Otafiire’s efforts give us confidence that the government values our faith and contributions. We are proud to support President Museveni’s leadership.”
Otafiire also drew attention to the principles of Uganda’s multiparty democracy, reminding officials that political dominance is not permanent. “The NRA/M were once young and inexperienced. Other parties, such as NUP, could one day become the ruling party. We must win the hearts of citizens through persuasion, not intimidation,” he said.
The 2022 campaign, which included community sensitization, public dialogues, and media engagements, laid the foundation for a stronger relationship between security agencies and Muslim communities. The Wednesday review assessed the impact of these initiatives, reinforced collaboration in fighting terrorism and extremism, and highlighted the achievements of the government under President Museveni.
“This review is not only about security—it is about building trust, strengthening national unity, and ensuring that all Ugandans, regardless of faith or political affiliation, are treated fairly,” Otafiire concluded.
