The Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadan Mubajje, has expressed dissatisfaction with the manner in which President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni distributed positions in the newly appointed Cabinet, saying Muslims were given too few slots despite their significant contribution towards sustaining the ruling government in power.
Speaking during Eid al-Adha prayers at the Uganda National Mosque, commonly known as the Old Kampala Mosque, on Wednesday morning, Mubajje said Muslims also deserve a fair share of opportunities and leadership positions in the country.
The Mufti called upon President Museveni to reconsider the matter and ensure equitable representation of Muslims in government appointments.
Mufti Mubajje also criticized some Muslim leaders and tour operators involved in organizing Hajj pilgrimages, accusing them of turning the sacred journey into a business venture instead of prioritizing religious service. He noted that many Muslims failed to travel for Hajj despite having paid their money.
However, the Mufti commended individuals and organizations that donated animals for slaughter during Eid celebrations, saying their contribution helps Muslims fulfill the religious teachings and traditions of Prophet Ibrahim.
Eid al-Adha prayers at the national mosque commenced at exactly 9:00am, attracting thousands of Muslims from different parts of Kampala and surrounding areas who gathered to mark the Islamic festival of sacrifice.
The Deputy Second Mufti, Dr Sheikh Hafiz Muhammad Harunah Bukenya, who delivered the Khutbah, urged all Muslims with the financial ability to slaughter animals during the three days of Eid as part of fulfilling the Islamic ritual of sacrifice.
Kampala Minister Minsa Kabanda, who represented the government at the prayers, encouraged Muslims to remain united and avoid divisions that could hinder their economic and social progress.
Meanwhile, the Secretary General of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council, Hajji Ssekyanzi Abaasi Muluubya, cautioned Muslims across the country to remain vigilant against Ebola by following all guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health.
Deputy Mufti Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa also encouraged financially able Muslims to participate in the slaughtering of animals as a sign of obedience and sacrifice to Allah, following the example of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail.
