The Mufti of Uganda, His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, has reaffirmed the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council’s (UMSC) commitment to integrity, unity, and development in a statement posted on his official handle on X, formerly Twitter.
The message comes a day after the High Court dismissed a petition challenging his leadership and term extension under the amended UMSC constitution, which raised the retirement age of the Mufti to 75 years.
“Despite misinformation and negativity, UMSC remains focused on its work, upholding values of knowledge, integrity, truth, and striving for Allah’s approval rather than human validation,” Mufti Mubaje wrote.
He thanked President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his continued support in enabling the Council to grow into a respected institution at both national and international levels.
“I’m glad to inform you that the UMSC has grown into a respected institution at both national and international levels, and we’re committed to upholding its values and principles,” he posted.
Mufti Mubaje revealed that a group of individuals had taken him and his deputies to court last year, questioning the legitimacy of their leadership. He welcomed the court’s decision to uphold the Council’s internal authority and constitutional processes.
“The court’s decision to recognize UMSC as an independent institution that can handle its affairs internally is a significant step forward. It’s time we resolve our issues internally, guided by the Qur’an and Hadith, rather than turning to the media or external influences,” he stated.
He added that in future legal disputes, the Council will seek to have costs awarded to the winning party, noting the need to protect institutional resources.
On the issue of Muslim community property, Mufti Mubaje said UMSC will take legal action to reclaim assets currently under individual control, including Voice of Africa radio and Kibuli TCC.
“We have documentation proving ownership, and we’ll take legal action to reclaim these assets and ensure they are used for their intended purpose—to benefit the Muslim community,” he declared.
He extended his appreciation to the UMSC legal team for their work, and thanked all well-wishers, both within and outside the Council’s structures, for their support.