Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), has urged Ugandans to respect religious leaders, warning against judging God’s messengers by their appearance, wealth or social status.
In a message shared on X, formerly Twitter, Muhoozi referred to the birth of Jesus Christ to explain why people should be careful when criticising pastors. His remarks come amid a public dispute between social commentator Frank Gashumba and some religious leaders over miracle claims.
Muhoozi noted that God chose for Jesus Christ to be born in a manger in a stable in Bethlehem rather than in a palace in Jerusalem, showing that God’s work does not always come through people who appear powerful or influential.
“On the issue of pastors, I urge caution. Almighty God chose for His son, Jesus Christ, to be born in a manger in a stable in Bethlehem. Not in a palace in Jerusalem. So, let us not despise messengers who seem small,” Muhoozi wrote.
However, the army chief also reminded Christians that religious leaders should be judged by their actions. Referring to Matthew 7:16, he quoted the biblical teaching: “Ye shall know them by their fruits.”
His comments follow Gashumba’s criticism of some pastors who claim to perform miracles, including healing people suffering from serious illnesses. Gashumba has challenged such religious leaders to prove their claims, sparking debate among Ugandans.
While some people support calls for greater accountability among pastors, others have urged the public to avoid generalising accusations against religious leaders. The debate has brought questions about faith, miracles and the responsibilities of religious figures into the spotlight.
Muhoozi’s message calls for a balance between respecting religious leaders and examining their conduct. He argues that people should not despise pastors who appear insignificant, while the biblical teaching he cited reminds believers that the actions of those claiming to serve God also matter.
