Pastor Kayanja Condemns Magere Raid, Calls for Accountability in UPDF

BY CTV REPOTER

Kampala — Miracle Center Cathedral lead pastor, Robert Kayanja, has strongly condemned the recent raid on the Magere residence of opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, describing the incident as wrong, unacceptable, and damaging to the image of Uganda’s armed forces.

The raid reportedly involved the assault of Bobi Wine’s wife, Barbra Itungo Kyagulanyi, an act that sparked widespread national and international criticism. Pastor Kayanja said the conduct displayed during the operation does not reflect the core values of the Uganda People’s Defense Force (UPDF) and instead casts the institution in a negative light both locally and abroad.

He expressed deep concern over the professionalism of the officers involved, warning that such actions embarrass not only the army but also the State, while leaving lasting psychological effects on the victims, especially when violence occurs within one’s home.

The army exists to protect citizens and uphold the law, not to intimidate civilians or violate their dignity, Pastor Kayanja said.

The pastor emphasized that assaulting an innocent citizen, particularly a woman—has no place in a civilized society. He also condemned the reported circulation of photographs linked to the incident, calling it insensitive and disrespectful to the affected family.

He further called on religious and community leaders to speak out against injustice, stressing that silence only enables wrongdoing. According to Kayanja, continued reports of such incidents risk damaging Uganda’s international reputation, deepening political divisions, and undermining national unity.

He concluded by appealing for professionalism, respect for human rights, and accountability within security operations, saying these principles are essential for restoring confidence between citizens and the military and for safeguarding peace and democracy in Uganda.