The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) has issued a firm directive to its leaders and administrators across the country, emphasizing the need to remain non-partisan ahead of Uganda’s anticipated political season.
In an administrative circular dated May 29, 2025, the UMSC Secretary General, Hadji Abasa Muluubya Ssekyanzi, outlined guidelines aimed at safeguarding the unity, neutrality, and religious integrity of the Muslim community.
The circular, addressed to all UMSC office bearers, stresses that certain positions within the Council are strictly barred from political engagement, in line with the UMSC Constitution.
Those prohibited from participating in partisan politics include the Mufti of Uganda, Deputy Muftis, members of the Majlis Al-Ulama, Regional Assistants to the Mufti (RAMs), District Kadhis, District Councils of Sheikhs, County Sheikhs, County Councils of Sheikhs, and Imams. Also affected are the National Chairman and Deputy, Chairpersons of the UMSC Women and Youth Councils, as well as District and County Chairpersons. The restriction further extends to members of the UMSC Management Committee and employees at the National Headquarters.
“These categories of leaders must remain non-partisan and cannot hold political or cultural offices while serving in UMSC leadership,” the circular reads in part.
Office bearers who wish to engage in elective politics or any other form of partisan political activity have been directed to resign from their UMSC positions and formally hand over office to their immediate supervisors before participating in political campaigns or processes.
“This is to ensure that there is no conflict of interest and to protect the sanctity and neutrality of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council,” Hadji Ssekyanzi stated.
The circular also prohibits the use of mosque premises and UMSC-convened meetings as platforms for political campaigns. The guideline explicitly warns against the promotion of political party agendas before, during, or after prayers—including during major congregational events like Eid and Juma.
UMSC leadership has called on all Muslim leaders under its structure to comply with the directive, warning that violations will attract disciplinary action.
“This is a timely reminder to protect our mosques from political divisions and ensure that the Muslim community remains united,” the Secretary General emphasized.
