By Spy Uganda
In a fiery online outburst that has ignited fierce public debate, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), has ordered the Uganda Police Force to immediately clear the streets of what he called “fake preachers” who shout at commuters with microphones.
Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Gen. Muhoozi demanded urgent action, describing the street preachers as “clowns” and accusing them of insulting Christianity through disorderly conduct.
“Uganda Police should immediately REMOVE all the fake preachers who shout at commuters (with microphones) every day as they make their way to work and home. This must happen immediately!” he posted.
In a follow-up post that further shocked religious communities, the CDF added:
“NOBODY believes in our God, Jesus Christ, more than me. But God is not a confused fool shouting at people all day! That insult against our GOD stops today!! Police must REMOVE all those clowns in 30 days… or something else will follow!”
The comments have stirred widespread reaction across the country, where street preachers have become a daily fixture, especially in busy urban areas like Kampala. While some citizens welcome the move as a necessary clampdown on noise pollution, others see it as an attack on freedom of worship and expression.
Street preaching, often regarded as a stepping stone to prominence in Uganda’s Pentecostal movement, has long been a contentious issue. Many of these preachers are affiliated with larger ministries and churches, though their unregulated methods and noise levels have frequently drawn complaints.
Adding an unexpected dose of humor and controversy, Gen. Muhoozi shared a personal anecdote about renowned Israeli-American televangelist Benny Hinn, who recently concluded a four-day crusade in Uganda.
“I tried Benny Hinn’s prayers long ago. I asked Almighty God not to give me a bald head. As soon as I mentioned Benny Hinn, He removed my hair extra fast!” the General quipped, prompting laughter and emojis from friends like BBC presenter Alan Kasujja, who replied: “We’ve really prayed. And we continue to pray. Maybe one day things will change.”
Benny Hinn’s high-profile visit included a meeting with President Yoweri Museveni at the State Lodge in Nakasero on Monday, during which the evangelist laid hands on the President and offered prayers. The moment raised eyebrows in security circles, with Gen. Muhoozi taking a jab:
“Someone prayed for Mzee without the permission of security? How did that happen? Those who prayed and those who allowed the prayers are now under investigation.”
The crusade’s emotional climax saw Museveni’s daughter, Patience Rwabwogo, a senior pastor at Covenant Nations Church, collapse in tears after receiving a prophecy and blessing from Benny Hinn, who declared a “special calling” on her life.
The unfolding saga has blended Uganda’s deeply religious culture with politics and online banter, reflecting Gen. Muhoozi’s unfiltered style of leadership and his growing presence on the national stage.
As the Uganda Police prepares its response to the CDF’s directive, the fate of Kampala’s street preachers — and the broader conversation about faith, freedom, and public order — remains uncertain.
