A former Muslim leader in eastern Uganda was beaten, hospitalised, and left homeless after telling relatives he had become a Christian following a vision of Jesus.
Wambuzi Maka Uthman, a 39-year-old former Islamic teacher, said he received the vision on 1 August while resting inside a mosque in Mayuge District. He described seeing a man in white clothing, surrounded by angels, who called his name and told him to tell others to repent and turn to the living God.
Later that day, Uthman met a pastor from Elim Church who explained that the vision pointed to Jesus Christ. On 4 August, Uthman shared his experience with his wife, six children, and neighbours, but his message was rejected. His wife reported him to his brothers, believing he had lost his mind.
Family members arranged to take him to a mental health facility, but when Uthman insisted he was not mentally ill and began explaining his vision of Jesus, they attacked him. He was struck in the face and beaten with sticks before escaping through nearby bushes. A Christian neighbour helped him reach hospital, where he received treatment for a week for serious injuries.
While he was recovering, his wife left with their six children to stay with relatives. His brothers later demolished his home, with one declaring that they could not live with “an infidel” who claimed Jesus is the Son of God.
Uthman was discharged from hospital on 11 August and has since gone into hiding for his safety.
Uganda’s constitution protects freedom of religion, including the right to convert and share one’s faith. Muslims make up about 12 percent of the population, with higher numbers in the country’s east. The attack is among several recent incidents of violence against Christians in Uganda.
Adapted from Morning Star News.
