Summary:
- Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda, reassures Muslims in Sironko to ignore disturbances from Kampala during the inauguration of Masjid Aziz Hakim, emphasizing unity and progress amidst challenges.
Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the embattled Mufti of Uganda, advised Muslims in the Sironko district to disregard the turmoil emerging from Kampala and to continue with their regular duties.
Delivering this message during the inauguration of Masjid Aziz Hakim in Mutufu Town Council, Sironko district on Saturday, Mubaje reassured the audience amid chants of Allah Akbar (God is the Greatest) that the disturbances from Kampala were not unprecedented and that everything was under control.
“We do not waste our time engaging in conflicts with those individuals; that’s why I can sleep soundly at night because I know I am on the right path,” he emphasized.
Furthermore, he clarified that most of the individuals causing the disturbance in Kampala had previously been associated with the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) but were expelled due to their lack of discipline.
“We had collaborated with them in the past, but due to numerous instances of misconduct, we had no choice but to remove them from our ranks,” he stated.
Mubaje pointed out that those opposing the Council were envious of its achievements. He shared a humorous anecdote, saying, “During a visit, an Archbishop touring our facilities remarked that anyone who didn’t oppose us would be a fool,” which elicited laughter from the crowd.
The Mufti expressed gratitude to the Kadhis and members of the General Assembly for their unwavering support of the Council.
Shifting focus to the newly renovated Mosque, Sheikh Mubaje commended the donors who funded the project and encouraged Muslims to use the mosque for prayers and the education of their children during the holidays.
“During these holidays, please use this mosque to educate your children. We are not suggesting that all children should become Sheikhs, but they should learn the basics that will enable them to practice their faith,” he emphasized.
Mubaje praised Sheikh Ali Juma Shiuyo, the Secretary for Haj and Umra, for overseeing the mosque’s expansion, stating that he had met his expectations.
Sheikh Shiwuyo informed the Mufti that they had extended the Mosque, completed the wiring, and installed a borehole to provide clean water to the mosque and the community.
“I assure you, your eminence, that we followed your teachings and used the correct mixture of cement, sand, and quality timber. We have executed this project diligently, and everyone involved has been duly compensated,” he assured.
Sheikh Shiwuyo also informed the Mufti that he had taken the initiative to improve the mosque’s toilets, which were not part of the initial construction plan.
Dr. Sarah Kanabi, the Executive Director of the Electricity Regulatory Authority, also spoke at the gathering and commended the Mufti for his support in expanding the mosque.
She expressed, “Now that we have a beautiful mosque, we hope to build a residence for the imam and establish a Muslim school. We pray for your continued support, just as you have done for the mosque.”
