His Eminence the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, has called on the international community to urgently intervene in the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine.
He condemned the continued violence, loss of life, and destruction, urging global powers to act decisively to end the suffering of innocent civilians.
Speaking during Eid Adhuha prayers at the Gaddafi National Mosque in Kampala on Friday, Dr. Mubaje appealed for prayers and support for people in war-torn regions, particularly Palestine, which has endured relentless conflict.
“We must not remain silent while our brothers and sisters in Palestine suffer,” he said. “The killings must stop. The world must rise above politics and protect humanity.”
The Mufti’s powerful message came as thousands of Muslims gathered at the mosque to mark Eid Adhuha, a day of sacrifice, unity, and reflection.
Turning to national matters, the Mufti called on Ugandans to promote peace and unity ahead of the upcoming general elections. He emphasized that Islam is a religion that fosters calmness and cohesion, especially during sensitive political seasons.
“Let us remain peaceful during this election period. Muslims and all Ugandans must avoid division and conflict,” he urged.
Dr. Mubaje also expressed frustration over the persistent mismanagement of the Haj pilgrimage, accusing the Uganda Bureau of Haj Affairs of incompetence and corruption. He noted that even Muslims who had paid through official government arrangements were unable to travel for Haj this year.
“This has become a recurring issue,” he said. “The authorities must urgently intervene to bring an end to this injustice.”
On the spiritual front, the Mufti reminded Muslims of the significance of animal sacrifice during Eid Adhuha. He warned against commercializing the practice by selling the meat, stressing that it should be shared as prescribed in Islamic teachings.
In a strong message to religious leaders, Dr. Mubaje also cautioned against using mosques for political campaigns.
“Let us not turn places of worship into political arenas. The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council has already issued guidance on this matter,” he stated.
Other leaders who spoke at the event included Counsel Ali Aluma, the UMSC Deputy Secretary General in charge of Finance and Administration. He highlighted the Council’s achievements, such as the successful repossession of UMSC land, and urged Muslims to take part in the ongoing National Identity Card renewal exercise.
The UMSC Deputy National Chairman, Hon. Muzamil Abun, affirmed that the Mufti’s five-year term was a decision by the Council’s top organs to ensure proper institutional transition and stability.
The Eid Adhuha sermon was delivered by the Second Deputy Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Hafiz Haruna Muhammad Bukenya. He emphasized the spiritual value of sacrifice and encouraged Muslims to remain steadfast in upholding Islamic principles.
The event drew thousands of worshippers, who gathered in a spirit of devotion and solidarity, with many resonating deeply with the Mufti’s call for global justice and national unity.
