Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda, has raised concerns about the perceived indifference of the Western world towards the suffering of the Palestinian people, despite their claims to uphold human rights. He expressed these concerns following his leadership of Friday prayers at the National Mosque in Old Kampala.
Mubaje criticized the loss of life and destruction caused by the ongoing Israeli government’s bombardments against the Palestinians. He expressed his disappointment over the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinians, focusing on Israel’s continuous attacks on Palestinians and their forced eviction from their territories. He particularly emphasized the destruction of the Masjid Al-Aqsa, one of the holiest Islamic sites, in Jerusalem, which was taken from the Palestinians in 1967.
Mubaje highlighted the historical context, stating that the Israeli people initially arrived as refugees but gradually took over Palestinian lands, leaving them with less than ten percent of their territories. He also condemned the Israeli government’s actions, including the killing of innocent civilians, including women, children, the elderly, and other vulnerable individuals.
Mubaje called upon Ugandan Muslim faithful to offer special prayers for the Palestinian people who are suffering. He also encouraged Muslims to adhere to the security measures mandated by President Museveni, especially concerning national security in places of worship like mosques and churches.
Mubaje mentioned an organized trip in the Albertine region of Uganda, where religious leaders from the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) familiarized themselves with ongoing oil exploration, extraction, and the construction of a significant airport. He explained that these projects aim to establish industries for the production of gas, money, fertilizers, petrol, kerosene, clothing, and crude oil for export.
The gathering concluded with special prayers dedicated to the souls of the Palestinian martyrs, including those who have suffered severe injuries. These prayers were led by Sheikh Abdu Obeid Kamulegeya of the UMSC Shura Council.
