Gen Muhoozi orders immediate arrest of ‘fake’ street preachers from Kampala streets

Kampala, Uganda: The Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, who is also the Chief of Defence Forces and First Son, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has ordered the immediate arrest and removal of self-proclaimed street preachers whom he accuses of deceiving the public and creating noise pollution in Uganda’s capital.

In a strongly worded directive issued via his official X account on Wednesday, Gen Muhoozi directed Uganda Police to clear all “fake preachers” from the streets without delay, describing them as opportunists exploiting religion for personal gain.

“Uganda Police should immediately REMOVE all the fake preachers who yell at commuters (with microphones) every day as they travel to work and home. This MUST HAPPEN immediately!!” he commanded.

Gen Muhoozi condemned the practice as a racket that preys on vulnerable citizens, warning that the days of unregulated street evangelism are over.

Uganda, like many African countries, has seen a surge in self-styled “anointed pastors” accused of staging fake miracles and harassing the public for offerings.

The statement by the CDF triggered mixed reactions online, with some Ugandans applauding the crackdown while others defended street preachers’ freedom of worship.

“This thought infringes on individuals’ freedom of worship. The preachers are not the only ones who create noise. This noise usually comes from bars, discos, mosques, and musicians, among others,” said Samuel Kasibante, a resident of Kampala.

Kasibante added that whereas they might be inconveniencing some people, we should not forget Uganda is a Christian Nation, and everyone has the freedom to worship.

“Dear Gen @mkainerugaba, let’s spare these preachers for the sake of our master Jesus. If noise is the issue, then authorities should deal with bars, traders of all kinds of things, which include churches, mosques, politicians, musicians, among others,” he stated.

It remains to be seen if authorities will comply with Gen Muhoozi’s orders and begin enforcement operations immediately or if they will treat his statement as a social media joke. Police had not yet issued an operational statement by press time.

For years, street preaching has been a contentious issue in Uganda, with residents frequently complaining about the use of loudspeakers, music, and aggressive preaching in public areas, including taxi parks, busy road sides, and marketplaces.

While proponents argue that street preaching is a form of religious expression and outreach, critics contend that it infringes on the rights of non-participating members of the public, who are forced to endure excessive noise and unwanted religious messaging.