The Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Mubajje, faces a challenging period as the end of his term approaches, with controversies surrounding age limits and qualifications. According to the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) constitution, Sheikh Mubajje has one year and 30 days left in office, having assumed the position on December 11, 2000.
While the previous UMSC constitution mandated the retirement of the Mufti at the age of 70, the new constitution, ratified in July 2022, extended the age limit to 75. However, the validity of the new constitution is currently under legal scrutiny.
The new constitution stipulates that Mufti Mubajje, upon turning 70, must reapply for the position for a potential five-year extension. This requirement is contested by critics who argue that the Mufti has lost the trust of many Muslims and lacks the necessary qualifications.
Mr. Ramadhan Mugalu, former UMSC secretary-general, emphasized that Sheikh Mubajje should not cling to leadership, citing concerns over qualifications and trust among Muslims. The Mufti, who lacks a master’s degree in Sharia, is urged to comply with the new requirements or allow others to contest for the position.
Article 29 Clause 12 of the new UMSC constitution addresses the transition period, stating that individuals currently holding office or elected within UMSC structures are subject to the amended constitution’s rights and limitations, effective from July 13, 2022.
Sheikh Mubajje, under intense pressure from the Muslim community, is also facing calls to resign over the pending sale of eight prime properties, including the UMSC headquarters in Old Kampala, to settle a debt of over Shs19 billion from a failed land transaction. The Mufti, who initially expressed a desire for a short tenure under the new constitution, is now confronted with internal conflicts and legal challenges, extending his stay in office.
The controversy intensifies as Sheikh Mubajje pursues a Ph.D. in Sharia, asserting his eligibility for the post. The UMSC spokesperson, Mr. Ashiraf Muvawala, defended the Mufti, stating that he holds a Master’s degree in Religious Studies from Makerere University and is still qualified for the position.
