Opposition members in Kasese District, particularly those affiliated with the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), have called on President Yoweri Museveni to uphold freedom of worship following allegations that he influenced the postponement of a special Mass intended to pray for detained opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye.

The planned Mass at Lubaga Cathedral on Monday was cancelled after Besigye’s wife, Winnie Byanyima, revealed that Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere received a call from the President requesting the service be deferred.

The PFF group in Kasese described the move as a troubling sign of state interference in religious affairs and a retreat from democratic gains, including freedom of speech and religious liberty.

Saulo Maate, PFF Chairperson for the Western Region, said the reported obstruction signals growing state dominance over independent institutions.

“This action is a worrying precedent that could lead to further interference in religious matters,” Maate stated.

“We question why religious leaders committed to doing what is right would act under political pressure. We urge them to remain independent and collectively issue a statement on this matter.”

Jafari Kighutiya, an FDC leader in Kasese Municipality, expressed disappointment that Museveni — who fought a bush war partly to secure citizens’ freedoms — is now accused of undermining those same rights.

“Given the contributions Dr. Besigye and his wife have made to this country, they should be allowed space to witness the reforms they once advocated for,” Kighutiya said.

Joseph Mafunguro, a PFF member in the district, called on religious leaders to engage the President directly and remind him of core democratic principles.

He urged Ugandans to use the ongoing Lenten and Ramadan periods to pray for national healing and justice.

The Kasese opposition figures framed the incident as part of a broader pattern of restricting civic and religious space.

They reiterated support for Besigye, who is jointly charged with Obeid Lutale and Captain Denis Oola on treason charges for allegedly plotting to overthrow the government — accusations the accused have dismissed as politically motivated.

Dr. Besigye, a former personal physician to Museveni and one of his longest-standing political rivals, has been in detention since November 2024.

His case was transferred from military to civilian High Court jurisdiction following a January 2025 Supreme Court ruling declaring the trial of civilians in military courts unconstitutional.

The PFF has mobilised supporters to attend Besigye’s upcoming court appearances, framing them as part of the wider struggle for democracy and the rule of law.

No official response has been issued from State House regarding the allegations of interference in the planned Mass.