Summary:
- Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, warns Muslims in West Nile against supporting the acting Mufti, Sheikh Abdallah Ssemambo, amidst a leadership crisis, urging them to reject misinformation and uphold unity within the UMSC.
Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the embattled Mufti of Uganda, has cautioned Muslims in West Nile against aligning with the acting Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Abdallah Ssemambo.
During his address at the Swalatul Janaz, special prayers held for the departed soul of Haj Musa Noor Gule at the National Mosque, Mubaje urged the Muslim community not to be swayed by the misinformation and falsehoods propagated by a faction led by Sheikh Abdallah Ssemambo.
In front of the gathered faithful, Mubaje implored, “I urge the Muslims of the West Nile region not to be influenced by the propaganda and deceit spread by a group of misguided individuals who thrive in confusion and conflict.”
He discouraged joining such factions, notorious for hurling insults at the Mufti during social events, including burials. Mubaje emphasized, “Those who instigate hate and sow discord among the faithful will never find a place within the UMSC.”
The Mufti underscored the importance of adhering to Islamic teachings, urging Muslims to live righteously. Supporting his speech with a Quranic verse emphasizing the inevitability of death, Mubaje highlighted the significance of engaging in virtuous deeds for eternal life.
Mubaje paid tribute to the late Haj Musa Noor Gule, praising his exemplary life and contributions to benevolent Islamic activities in the West Nile region and beyond. He acknowledged Gule’s unwavering support for UMSC as a unifying body for all Muslims.
Regarding the recent appointment of Sheikh Abdallah Ssemambo as the acting Mufti, the decision was made during a special session of the UMSC general assembly held at Gangu Muslim Primary School in Wakiso district. This decision followed a court order authorizing a special session to discuss the state of the UMSC and submit a report to the court.
The controversy surrounding the Mufti’s position originated from various events, including the review of the UMSC constitution, the election period, and the December 2022 general assembly. Conflicts arose between the Hussein Bassajabala faction, led by Abdul Kyimba, and the Mubaje faction during the assembly.
“Bassajabala sought to reclaim the position of chairperson but faced opposition due to his previous impeachment, which rendered him ineligible under the UMSC constitution.”
Despite Sheikh Ssemambo’s appointment, the UMSC has recently reassured the Muslim community that Mubaje remains the Mufti of Uganda, regardless of the recent developments.
