KALANGALA – The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Deputy Secretary General, Rt Hon Rose Namayanja Nsereko, has urged members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church to actively participate in politics and leadership while rallying support for NRM candidate Idah Nabayiga ahead of the Kalangala District Woman MP by-election.
Namayanja made the remarks on Saturday during Sabbath worship with Adventist faithful in Kalangala Town Council.
Addressing the congregation, she challenged the perception among some Christians that politics is inherently dirty, arguing that the absence of God-fearing people in leadership contributes to the negative image associated with politics.
“Many Adventists fear joining politics because of the narrative that politics is a dirty game. But it becomes dirty when people who understand God distance themselves from it,” she said.
She noted that politics influences every aspect of society and that poor leadership affects institutions, including religious organizations.
“When politics is not well managed, even our religions and other institutions become disorganized. Those of us in active politics should continue preaching the gospel wherever we serve,” Namayanja added.
She commended the Seventh-day Adventist Church for nurturing responsible leaders and contributing to national development through education, mentorship and character formation.
“There is no church that nurtures leaders like the Seventh-day Adventist Church. We have leaders across many professions, and I personally thank the church for contributing greatly to who I am today,” she said.
Turning to the forthcoming by-election, Namayanja reminded residents of their responsibility to elect a representative who can effectively champion the district's interests.
She urged voters to focus on leadership qualities and development-oriented representation rather than political affiliations.
“As citizens, you have a responsibility to decide who will represent you in Parliament. I urge you to evaluate the candidates and choose a representative who will add value and substance to your area,” she said.
Namayanja emphasized the need for leaders who can work collaboratively with government and fellow leaders to attract services and development projects.
“A representative who can unite with others and lobby for services and development is a better choice than one who only talks about challenges. Talking alone cannot solve problems,” she said.
She argued that leaders who maintain constructive relationships with government are often better placed to secure development opportunities for their communities.
Namayanja subsequently endorsed NRM flag bearer Idah Nabayiga, describing her as a committed leader capable of working with government to advance development across Kalangala.
“I urge you to support Hon. Nabayiga Idah because she is ready to work with government and fellow leaders to lobby for services and development for all the people of Kalangala,” she said.