By Bamutaze Sam
Residents and opinion leaders in Mayuge District have expressed mixed views over ongoing international efforts aimed at easing tensions between the United States and Iran, reflecting differing political, religious and economic perspectives.
Speaking to the media, the national leader of ASHIA in Uganda and former Mayuge District LCV Chairperson, Haji Umaru Ductoor Bongo Muwaya, expressed skepticism about the prospects of any peace agreement between the two countries.
According to Bongo, previous international agreements involving the United States have not always been fully implemented, making him doubtful that any new deal would endure.
“America cannot be trusted to respect such agreements, and the world should be very aware of that,” he said.
Bongo claimed that several international agreements had previously been reached but were later violated by successive American administrations, although he did not cite specific examples.
Speaking in an interview at the Alhalubait Islamic Foundation headquarters in Buyemba Village, Bukatube Sub-county, Mayuge District, Bongo questioned the United States’ commitment to honouring international agreements.
He also raised concerns about what he described as double standards in international politics, particularly regarding the treatment of Israel and Iran. He argued that continued hostilities in the Middle East could undermine global peace and stability.
Bongo further commented on Iran’s nuclear programme, saying he supports Iran’s efforts to strengthen its defence capabilities.
“I support Iran developing nuclear capability so that it can be prepared to defend itself against any enemy,” he said.
His remarks reflect his personal views and come amid continued international debate over Iran’s nuclear programme, which remains a subject of diplomatic negotiations and international sanctions.
However, not everyone shares Bongo’s position.Umaru Kabibu, a resident of Mayuge District, welcomed recent efforts aimed at reducing tensions between the United States and Iran, arguing that prolonged conflict would have serious consequences for the global economy.
Kabibu praised U.S. President Donald Trump for supporting peace initiatives, saying such efforts could help stabilize international markets and curb rising inflation.
“I believe promoting peace is important because conflict affects trade, increases inflation and hurts economies across the world,” Kabibu said.
He added that members of the international business community generally favour diplomatic solutions because they help safeguard global trade, reduce economic uncertainty and promote financial stability.
As diplomatic efforts continue, analysts say the outcome of U.S.-Iran relations will have significant implications not only for security in the Middle East but also for global energy markets, international trade and the broader world economy.
