Sheikh Abdalla Ssemambo, the recently elected parallel Mufti of Uganda, has pledged to prioritize the promotion of unity among Muslims in the country. He emphasized the adverse impact of division on the development of Muslims across Uganda during his first meeting with Muslim leaders (Imaams) in Kampala.
In addressing the media, Sheikh Ssemambo attributed the divisions to the actions of the former Mufti, Shaban Mubajje, stating that Mubajje’s leadership contradicted Islamic teachings, especially through the sale of Muslim properties. Ssemambo expressed his commitment to unite factions that emerged during Mubajje’s regime and emphasized the need to revive structures that were damaged by the previous leadership.
“We need to revive all our structures which were destroyed by the previous leadership. Whoever was not supporting the leadership was fired without a genuine reason and replaced by unqualified leaders,” he remarked.
Sheikh Ssemambo asserted that his leadership would adhere to the old Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) constitution and soon assume office, emphasizing that their actions align with the law.
Addressing financial matters, Ssemambo distanced himself from controversies involving Mubajje, noting that since he was appointed deputy Mufti, he had not accessed UMSC accounts or financial documents, which were managed by the Mufti and the Secretary General.
Looking ahead, Ssemambo disclosed plans to address financial challenges, aiming to save Muslim properties by engaging various individuals to raise an estimated debt of over Shs19 billion.
However, the election of Ssemambo has faced opposition from UMSC, which rejected the alleged suspension of Sheikh Mubajje, asserting that the process leading to Ssemambo’s election was unlawful. UMSC Secretary General Abbas Sekyanzi Muluubya reiterated that the constitution regulates the UMSC, and the Mufti is vetted by Majilis AL-Ulaama (a group of sheikhs) rather than elected by the General Assembly.
As per the UMSC law, the Mufti is recognized as the spiritual head and leader of all Muslims in Uganda.
