CDF Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has called for caution in the ongoing debate surrounding Ugandan pastors, urging the public not to despise religious leaders who may appear insignificant while emphasising the importance of judging them by their actions.

In a brief tweet on the controversy, Muhoozi invoked the biblical account of the birth of Jesus Christ, noting that God chose for His son to be born in a manger in Bethlehem rather than a palace in Jerusalem.

“On the issue of pastors, I urge caution. Almighty God chose for His son, Jesus Christ, to be born in a manger in a stable in Bethlehem. Not in a palace in Jerusalem. So, let us not despise messengers who seem small,” Muhoozi said.

He, however, cited Matthew 7:16, in which Jesus teaches that people can be recognised by their fruits, introducing a message that combines respect for religious messengers with the need to examine their conduct.

“Ye shall know them by their fruits,” he added.

Muhoozi's remarks come amid a public dispute involving social commentator Frank Gashumba and several prominent religious leaders over claims of miraculous healing and the accountability of preachers who say they can heal serious illnesses through prayer.

Gashumba has challenged pastors claiming miraculous healing powers to demonstrate those abilities under verifiable conditions, offering Shs500 million as part of the challenge. The dispute has generated debate about faith, the authenticity of healing claims and the responsibilities of religious leaders.

Among the religious figures associated with the wider debate are Apostle Grace Lubega of Phaneroo Ministries International and Prophet Elvis Mbonye of Zoe Fellowship Ministries. Pastor Martin Ssempa has also reportedly backed Gashumba's challenge.

Muhoozi's statement does not explicitly endorse either side of the dispute. Instead, his appeal to the biblical account of Christ's humble birth cautions against dismissing religious leaders based on their apparent status, while his reference to Matthew 7:16 points to the importance of assessing people by their actions.

The remarks add another public voice to a debate that has expanded beyond the original challenge, raising broader questions about religious authority, public trust and accountability within Uganda's religious community.