MBALE.
The embattled Mufti of Uganda Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje has banned Muslim leaders from campaigning during mosque activities and burials ahead of the 2026 national elections.
Addressing congregants at memorial prayers for the late Haj Edris Wetaka at Tawfiq Mosque, Kisenyi Cell, Buyonjo Road in Mbale City Northern Division, on Saturday, May 10, 2025, Mufti Mubaje said the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) would soon issue circulars ordering Muslim leaders at all UMSC structures to stay out of direct political campaigns.
He warned Kadhis, Sheikhs, and UMSC committee chairpersons against acting as agents for political parties and aspirants. “The UMSC Constitution requires our leaders to remain nonpartisan. Direct involvement in campaigns will breed conflicts and divide the Muslim faithful,” he said.
Mubajje is currently facing an ethical and moral test after a section of Muslims withdrew their allegiance from him ,saying he is in office illegally having clocked the mandatory retirement age of 70 years early this year . Mubajje is also accused of running down UMSC in the last 24 years and illegally disposing of community prime properties across the country .
At the same function , Mufti Mubajje also said that any Muslim cleric intending to contest political positions must first resign before the election period begins.
He encouraged Muslim elites to seek political leadership through the proper channels, just like other citizens, but without compromising their Islamic faith.
The Mufti made the remarks after Dr. Sarah Wasagali Kanaabi, Chairperson of the Uganda Electricity Regulatory Board and aspirant for the Woman Member of Parliament seat for Mbale City, complained that some Sheikhs were using Friday sermons and Islamic functions to campaign against her at the behest of political opponents.
Paying tribute to the late Haj Edris Wetaka, Mufti Mubajje praised him as a pious, committed Muslim who championed Islamic development in the Bugisu sub-region. He hailed Hajj Wetaka for lobbying for the construction of a mosque on land he personally donated and for his tradition of hosting national Muslim leaders during working visits.
“He was like a father to me because he was a close colleague of my late father, Hajj Ramadhan Mubajje, and other Muslim leaders in the area. I urge his children to protect his legacy and call on all Muslims to emulate his example,” Mufti Mubajje said.
He urged Hajj Wetaka’s family to work closely with the Bugisu Muslim leadership to ensure the mosque’s documentation and registration complies with UMSC policies.
Hajji Ahmed Wetaka, a journalist with Uganda Radio Network speaking on behalf of the family, pledged to continue his father’s efforts in promoting Islamic activities.
The event attracted several dignitaries, including UMSC General Assembly Representatives, Executive Committee members, Khadis from neighbouring Muslim districts, and National Management members.