Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda, met with Imams from Kwarikwari County at the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) headquarters in Old Kampala to address the ongoing disputes that have hindered the progress of Islam in the area.
During the meeting, led by Sheikh Sulaiman Musambule, the Muslim leaders raised concerns about Sheikh Abdul-Wahab Kauta, the Kadhi of Kumi Muslim District, whom they accused of violating the UMSC constitution. They claimed that Sheikh Kauta imposed a county Sheikh without following the proper nomination procedures stipulated in the constitution. The UMSC Electoral Commission Chairperson was also accused of confirming the rival county Sheikh, leading to confusion and internal conflicts within the Muslim community.
In response, Sheikh Mubaje emphasized the importance of unity, brotherhood, and development among the Muslim leaders. He urged them to shift their focus from unproductive disputes over the county Sheikh’s position and instead prioritize the collective well-being of the community.
To address these issues, Muhammad Ali Aluma, the UMSC Secretary-General, advised lower-level Muslim leaders to familiarize themselves with the UMSC Constitution and adhere to its hierarchical structure. He recommended that such matters be resolved at the district council level before being escalated to the UMSC headquarters.
Despite the leaders’ failure to follow the established procedure, they expressed gratitude for Sheikh Mubaje’s willingness to engage with them and find a resolution.
In response to the accusations, Abubaker Were Wadangho, the UMSC Electoral Commission Chairperson, defended the decisions made during the previous UMSC elections, stating that they were by the constitution. He clarified that the appointment of the county Sheikh fell under the responsibility of the District Kadhi, guided by the nomination process of the county committee.