A large crowd of Muslim faithful in the newly created Bidi Bidi Muslim District turned up in big numbers to witness the swearing-in of their first Khadi, Sheikh Zubeir Achile.
The colourful event was held on Wednesday afternoon, May 13, 2026, at Barakala Muslim Primary School in Barakala Town Council.
Sheikh Achile, flanked by his elderly parents and wife, took the Oath of Office administered by the UMSC Electoral Commission team led by Were Abubakar Wadangho, the National Chairperson, assisted by Counsel Hadad Salim, the West Nile Regional Commissioner.
The event was presided over by Sheikh Imran Abdunoor Ssali, the UMSC Secretary for Religious Affairs, who represented His Eminence Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje, the Mufti of Uganda. Also in attendance were several Muslim leaders, including Sheikh Mahdie Muhmood Raihan, the West Nile Regional Assistant to the Mufti; Habib Aluma, the Regional Secretary; and Sheikh Swaib Al Hay Asiga, the Khadi of Yumbe Muslim District, Christian clergy among others.
Sheikh Ssali read out the Mufti’s speech, in which he implored all area leaders and development partners to work closely with the new Khadi.
“Progress will only be achieved through cooperation, mutual respect, and collective responsibility,” the Mufti noted in his message.
He concluded by urging the Muslims of Bidi- Bidi to strive to make their district a beacon of unity, development, and promotion of Islamic values.
Earlier, Sheikh Ssali handed Sheikh Zubeir Achile the appointment letter signed by the Mufti, together with instruments of authority, including the Holy Quran, the UMSC Constitution, and policy documents. He also helped him put on the official green robes of a Khadi.
Before Sheikh Ssali delivered the Mufti’s written speech to the congregation, several leaders made remarks, including Mr Abdul Abbas, Chairperson LC I of Luzira Village, and Mr Ijoga Mawa Rasul, Chairperson LC III, both representing the local government.
Sheikh Swaib Al Hay Asiga informed the gathering that the decision to create Bidi Bidi Muslim District was unanimously passed by the Yumbe Muslim District Council, its mother district from which it was curved.
Sheikh Mahdie Muhmood Raihan shared words of wisdom, encouraging the Muslim faithful to render the necessary support towards their district, which they tirelessly lobbied for.
In his remarks, Sheikh Achile informed the gathering that with the commencement of the district’s administrative activities, they should be aware that they face an uphill task since the district is beginning from scratch in all areas. He therefore urged the faithful to prepare to offer all the necessary support for its growth and development.