Uganda’s First Son and Chief of Defence Forces (UPDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has issued a direct order for the immediate arrest and removal of street preachers from public spaces, citing their contribution to growing noise pollution and disruption of public peace.
Gen. Muhoozi, who also serves as Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations (SPA/SO), made the announcement earlier this week through his official X (formerly Twitter) account, calling on the Uganda Police to take immediate action.
In his post, Gen. Muhoozi expressed frustration with what he described as “fake preachers” who use microphones to yell at commuters, especially during rush hour.
“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!!” the post read.
The directive marks a bold and unprecedented move by a top-ranking military official, reflecting growing concern among both the public and authorities over the unregulated nature of street preaching in major urban centers, such as Kampala.
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.
Reports indicate that enforcement teams may begin conducting sweeps in highly populated city areas, focusing on individuals using amplifiers, loudspeakers, and makeshift stages to address crowds without regard for noise levels or the time of day.
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The announcement has sparked mixed reactions from the public. Some urban dwellers and professionals welcomed the directive, describing it as long overdue and necessary for restoring sanity in public spaces.
Many cited personal experiences of being disturbed on their way to work or during lunch breaks by loud preaching and intrusive messages.
Others, particularly from religious organizations and civil society, voiced concern over the language used in the directive and warned against actions that may infringe on constitutionally protected freedoms of worship and expression.
Some have called for a balanced approach that distinguishes between noise control and the right to practice religion in public.
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!!
— Muhoozi Kainerugaba (@mkainerugaba) July 1, 2025
