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Uganda’s Mufti Calls for acceptance of Election results, Promotes Islamic Finance
His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda, has urged political actors to accept the outcomes of the recent general elections, emphasizing the importance of civility and democratic maturity. The call for peaceful acceptance comes amidst post-election assessments and potential for unrest, highlighting the need for a smooth transition and national unity.
Promoting Democratic Values
Speaking on february 1, 2026, during memorial prayers for the late Saidi Bizimungu in Kyankwanzi District, Mufti Mubaje stressed that elections inherently produce both winners and losers. He encouraged those who did not succeed to graciously accept the results,particularly when the electoral process was perceived as fair and the margin of victory was significant. This sentiment aligns with broader efforts to strengthen democratic institutions in Uganda.
“As you are aware, where there are election competitions, winners always have to emerge. Thus, civility requires that those who didn’t succeed accept the outcome, and it is indeed appropriate for them to congratulate their counterparts who were successful-more especially in situations where the processes were genuine and the margins between the winners and competitors were wide,” the Mufti stated.
Remembering Saidi Bizimungu and Promoting Righteousness
The memorial prayers were held for the late Saidi Bizimungu, whose legacy of community service was celebrated. His son, Hon. Habibu Mutabazi, is a member of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) General Assembly. Mufti Mubaje also used the occasion to remind the Muslim faithful to live righteously and adhere to the principles of Islam in their daily lives, quoting from the holy Qur’an to emphasize the importance of striving for a righteous path.
he highlighted Bizimungu’s contributions to the local Muslim community, specifically mentioning the construction of a mosque and his long-term service as both its treasurer and the village chairperson. Mufti Mubaje referenced a saying of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), emphasizing that the lasting legacies of a pious person include shared knowledge, charitable works, and righteous children who continue to pray for them.
Focus on Islamic Finance and Poverty Alleviation
mufti Mubaje also urged Imams to actively participate in Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs). He noted that the ugandan government is allocating funds to SACCOs operating in Muslim districts as part of its budget processes,encouraging prompt registration. This initiative aims to bolster economic empowerment within the Muslim community. He further encouraged Ugandans to participate in government poverty alleviation programs, particularly the Parish Development Model (PDM), a key government initiative to lift communities out of poverty.
UMSC Leadership and Regional Updates
Several leaders addressed the congregation, including Sheikh Imran Ssali, UMSC Secretary for religious Affairs, and Sheikh Hamid Sserwadda Busungu, Kampala Regional Assistant to the Mufti. Haj Dr. Edris Sserugo Kasenene praised the current UMSC administration under Mufti Mubaje for promoting constitutionalism within the council. Sheikh abdu Majed Mulinda, the Kadhi of Kyankwanzi Muslim District, provided updates on Islamic activities in the region, while Ms. Halima Nassali, the East Buganda Regional women Representative, spoke on behalf of her constituency.
Notable attendees included Sheikh Abdu Karim Abdallah Katamba, Regional Assistant to the Mufti in charge of Ankole-kigezi and Director of Halal, members of the UMSC General Assembly, Sheikh Abdu-Wahid Rashid Nkalubo, Imam of the National mosque, Mr. Semugaba Samuel,LC V-
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