Residents unhappy with Tanyiima’s presence in Rwamuranda
Leaders of security authorities from the Rwizi region and Kiruhura district have gathered at Rwamuranda Trading Centre in Rwamuranda Parish, Kanyaryeru Subcounty yesterday to address residents’ concerns over the recent destruction of shrines belonging to Tanyiima Eric. Residents accused the shrines of causing spirits to possess their children and wives leading to madness and misfortunes in the community.
The meeting, held yesterday, drew several high-ranking officials including Regional Police Commander SSP Alfred Bangambaki, District Police Commander (DPC) for Kiruhura district SP Nkurunziza Graciano, Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Bakunda George and other security personnel. They urged residents to remain calm as investigations into the incidents are ongoing.
Residents expressed their fears claiming that when Tanyiima established the shrines peace in the community diminished. They reported that many community members, especially children and women have been possessed by spirits which they believe is linked to the destruction of the shrines. Some residents blamed Tanyiima and Mwesigye Nathan for harboring evil spirits that attack vulnerable individuals.
Tanyiima Eric whose shrines were burned by residents and Mwesigye Nathan whom residents also accuse of possessing evil spirits explained to security officials how the issues began. Flora Kangoma, a leader of Christ’s Church in the area and a resident, stated that the problem of spirits attacking people in Rwamuranda has been ongoing but has recently intensified.
In response, SSP Alfred Bangambaki called for calm and urged residents not to take the law into their own hands. He emphasized that every Ugandan has the right to worship freely and advised the community against resorting to violence or attempting to treat those believed to be possessed without proper medical intervention.
The security leaders warned residents to handle local issues carefully and responsibly though some officials appeared surprised by the community’s reliance on spirits and church leaders in addressing these spiritual concerns.
The incident recalls the events of November 11, 2025 when residents attacked and burned the shrines of Tanyiima citing fears that their children were possessed by evil spirits. The authorities continue to investigate the matter while urging peace and order within the community.
