By Ashraf Zziwa
Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa, the Deputy Mufti of Uganda, has urged Muslims in Mukono to put aside divisions and work together under the leadership of Sheikh Abbas Zubair Ssenkuba, the newly sworn-in Kadhi of Mukono Muslim District.
“I implore you to respect him, and if any misunderstandings arise, resolve them amicably without resorting to violence or exposing internal matters in public. Do not mix politics with religious affairs,” Sheikh Waiswa emphasized. Addressing Sheikh Ssenkuba directly, he advised him to lead by example, remain humble and respectful, consult before making decisions, and stay close to the people he serves.
Sheikh Waiswa delivered this message during the swearing-in ceremony of Sheikh Ssenkuba, held on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at Mukono Muslim Primary School sports grounds in Kiyunga, along the Mukono-Kayunga highway. The event was jointly presided over by His Eminence Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa and His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Hafidh Muhammad Harunah Bukenya, the 2nd Deputy Mufti, on behalf of His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda.
The function drew a large crowd of Muslim faithful, dignitaries, and religious leaders. Among those in attendance were officials from the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) headquarters, led by Hon. Haji Abbas Muluubya Ssekyanzi, the UMSC Secretary General, as well as members of the UMSC General Assembly. Also present were the Regional Assistants to the Mufti for East Buganda and Kampala, Kadhis from neighboring Muslim districts, and Mukono Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Hajjat Fatuma Ndisaba Nabitaka, who led the government delegation. Traditional leaders, school heads, and prominent sheikhs were also in attendance.
At exactly 1:30 p.m., Sheikh Abbas Zubair Ssenkuba took the Oaths of Allegiance and Secrecy, formally assuming office. The oath-taking was administered by the UMSC Electoral Commission team, led by Hon. Badru Kateregga, the Commission Secretary.
Following the swearing-in, several key figures delivered speeches. The Mukono Muslim District Secretary presented a four-page report outlining the current state of Muslim affairs in the district. Outgoing District Kadhi, Sheikh Shazir Lumala, officially handed over office and advised his successor to be cautious when dealing with business people, politicians, and the less privileged in the community.
In his remarks, Sheikh Ssenkuba pledged to promote unity and development within Mukono Muslim District. Mukono RDC Hajjat Fatuma Ndisaba Nabitaka assured the gathering of the government’s support, while Hon. Haji Muluubya called for stronger cooperation between Mukono’s local government and the Muslim leadership, particularly on halal-related matters.
The event concluded with a renewed call for unity, responsible leadership, and cooperation within the Muslim community.
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