(Bugiri) – Busoga regional Muslim Khadi Sheik Mohammad Bowa has openly criticized Ugandan individuals involved in drug trafficking under the guise of pilgrimages to Mecca, saying their actions tarnish Uganda’s reputation abroad. Bowa stated that Ugandans are increasingly being viewed as “conmen” or “bafere” in the eyes of international Muslim communities, as drug trafficking grows within pilgrimage groups.
The problem, Bowa noted, has been exacerbated by certain companies that appear to focus on profit rather than the spiritual aspects of the journey to Mecca. These businesses, Bowa alleged, prioritize revenue over the principles of faith that should guide such pilgrimages.
As a result, Bowa disclosed that the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) and the Mufti of Uganda, Sheik Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje, are considering revoking the permission granted to private companies for organizing pilgrimages. This measure aims to curb the abuse of pilgrimage privileges by those who may misuse them for drug trafficking. Bowa explained that reports of arrests in Saudi Arabia often reach the Mufti, the country’s top Muslim authority, creating a reputational strain on Uganda’s Muslim leadership.
Sheik Juma Ali Shiwuyo, UMSC’s official overseeing pilgrim journeys, highlighted the seriousness of the issue by revealing that twelve Ugandans were recently apprehended in Saudi Arabia carrying marijuana. Some of those detained have been sentenced to death, while others face varying punishments under Saudi law.
The remarks from the clerics were made during a thanksgiving ceremony in Bugiri municipality for Hajji Salim Kiliswa and his wife, Hajat Sauya Naigaga, who recently returned from Mecca. The event, held at their home in Mukuba zone, celebrated the couple’s fulfillment of one of Islam’s five pillars.
Shiwuyo expressed additional concern, noting that some of the accused were not even Muslims, suggesting that individuals outside the faith exploit the pilgrimage process as a means to profit from marijuana sales.
The implications of these incidents extend beyond legal repercussions. According to Shiwuyo, these actions have led to heightened security checks on Ugandan pilgrims at Jedha Airport, resulting in delays that can extend up to five hours. Pilgrims from other countries are not subjected to the same level of scrutiny, emphasizing the impact on Ugandan travelers specifically. Shiwuyo urged pilgrims to avoid taking on additional luggage for others and to steer clear of any activity that could involve illicit substances.
Bugiri Municipality MP Asuman Basalirwa, also present at the event, voiced his support for Uganda’s Muslim community, pledging to advocate on behalf of religious leaders and their efforts to preserve the sanctity of the pilgrimage.
Arrests and Sentences of Ugandan Pilgrims in Saudi Arabia
| Incident Type | Number of Individuals | Legal Consequences in Saudi Arabia |
|---|---|---|
| Arrested with marijuana | 12 | Death sentences for some, other penalties for others |
Kiliswa and Naigaga, the honored guests at the event, shared their joy in completing the pilgrimage and expressed hope that Ugandan pilgrims will take heed of the warnings issued by religious leaders.
