Muslims urged to seek peaceful resolution to grievances

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Muslim communities in the Bunyoro sub-region have been urged to avoid violence when seeking redress for their concerns.

While leading Eid Al-Fitr prayers at Boma Grounds in Hoima City, Sheikh Akram Kareem Mahango, head of the theology department at Hoima Town Mosque, emphasised that mediation and reconciliation are the best ways to resolve conflicts.

He expressed concern over some Muslims who recently took to the streets and marched to Parliament in protest against the re-election of the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje.

"This act was uncalled for," Sheikh Mahango said, adding that the Quran condemns such actions. He urged the Muslim community in Bunyoro to avoid similar approaches when addressing their grievances.

He advised that dissatisfied Muslims should have taken their concerns to the headquarters of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council instead of resorting to street protests.

"The council of sheikhs reappointed the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje, to lead Muslims for another term. Some were unhappy with this decision and decided to protest in the streets. As Muslims, we are not happy with what happened. When did Muslims start protesting on the streets? Our issues should be handled in a manner that aligns with what Allah said in the Quran," he stated.

Sheikh Mahango also condemned the violence witnessed during the recent Kawempe North byelection, which left several people, including journalists, injured.

He described the incident as a worrying sign that could instill fear among Ugandans and called on the government to address the issue before the 2026 general elections.

"The country was shocked when the government distanced itself from what happened in Kawempe. Is this the peace we advocate for? We need assurance that such incidents will not happen again. As Muslims, we want to know whether it is safe for us to participate in the 2026 general election," he said.

Call for peace and unity

Sheikh Mahango urged the Muslim community to promote peace and unity to foster socio-economic transformation.

"All Muslims, from the village level, should forgive those who have wronged them and work together for development," he said.

"Islam is a religion that promotes peace. The word 'Islam' itself means peace, and among the ninety names of the Almighty Allah, one of them—'Aslam'—signifies peace. Even our greetings reflect this," he added.

Hajji Mustaf Zaidi Katungi, a renowned businessman and elder in the Bunyoro region, encouraged Muslims to remain faithful to their religious principles beyond the fasting period.

He noted that some Muslims abandon their disciplined way of living after Ramadan and engage in actions that do not honour Allah.

Katungi also urged Muslims to take advantage of the prevailing peace and opportunities in the oil and gas sector by engaging in income-generating activities such as farming to supply the industry.