It was unwarranted.
On September 20, a troubling incident unfolded in eastern Uganda involving an evangelist named Robertson Eriot, who sustained serious injuries during an attack by a group of Muslims. The 41-year-old Eriot and his fellow evangelist, Kefa Mukisa, were visiting the home of an Islamic leader, Sheikh Kalimu, to share their Christian beliefs. Upon gaining access, they engaged in a discussion about their faith, which angered Kalimu. He accused them of attempting to convert those present and summoned a group of Muslims who were attending a fellowship nearby.
As tensions escalated, the atmosphere turned hostile, with some in the crowd chanting the jihadist phrase “Allah Akbar” (God is greater). In a desperate attempt to escape, Mukisa leaped over a fence, while Eriot was apprehended by the group. Mukisa shouted for help, and soon local leaders and neighbors arrived, finding Eriot in a critical state—injured and covered in blood, unable to move.
Community members quickly transported Eriot to a nearby clinic, where medical personnel treated his grave injuries, including significant head wounds, a broken left hand, and multiple bruises. Mukisa observed that Eriot’s injuries appeared to be the result of both blunt and sharp objects used during the assault. Following the attack, they reported the incident to the authorities and are currently waiting for law enforcement to respond.
Eriot’s wife, who chose to remain unnamed, shared her distress over her husband’s condition and the financial burden placed on their family. With six children aged between 7 and 19, she expressed her worries about meeting their needs while also covering the medical expenses for her husband’s recovery, which she fears could be prolonged.
This violent episode underscores the ongoing persecution faced by Christians in Uganda, as reported by various news organizations. Despite the constitutional guarantees of religious freedom in Uganda, including the rights to practice and convert to different faiths, many Christians continue to encounter threats and violence, especially in areas with large Muslim populations like eastern Uganda.