Amin, Gaddafi, Museveni recognised at UMSC golden jubilee
By Ahmed Idriss & Issa Kigongo
Sheikh Shaban Ramathan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda, has praised President Yoweri Museveni, former President Idi Amin, and former Libyan leader Col Muammar Gaddafi for their contributions to the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council’s (UMSC) growth over the past 52 years.
Speaking at celebrations to mark the UMSC’s golden jubilee held at Old Kampala Secondary School grounds on December 12, Sheikh Mubaje recounted the historical struggles faced by Uganda’s Muslims, highlighting the pivotal role of former President Idi Amin in donating the land at Old Kampala, which now hosts the UMSC headquarters.
“Islam came to Uganda in the 1880s, but it wasn’t until 1972 that President Amin realized Muslims needed a unifying body to manage their affairs. He secured this land, and today we see the fruits of his foresight,” said the Mufti.
Sheikh Mubaje also credited the efforts of Presidents Yoweri Museveni and former Libyan leader, the late Col Muammar Gaddafi in developing the iconic Old Kampala Mosque. “This structure is an effort of three presidents. Museveni facilitated our unity and ownership of this land, and Gaddafi implemented the construction project. We are forever indebted to their support,” he noted.
The Mufti acknowledged the progress made during his 24-year tenure, emphasizing that unity and self-reliance have become the pillars of UMSC’s development. He called on all Muslims to protect these achievements and urged further support from the government and well-wishers to enhance community programs.
Mubaje further invited Muslims to remain united and committed to community development. “Most of the promises I made to you have been delivered. It is now up to you to protect and build upon these achievements,” he said.
The Vice President, Jessica Alupo, representing President Yoweri Museveni, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to religious freedom and development. In a speech delivered on behalf of the President, Alupo commended UMSC for partnering with the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government to extend social services and encourage wealth creation among Muslim households.
“The NRM government stands firm against division along religious, gender, tribal, or racial lines. We commend UMSC for uniting the Muslim community and promoting national cohesion,” she said.
Third Deputy Prime Minister Rukia Nakadama echoed these sentiments, thanking the President for his continued support of Uganda’s Muslim community. “We are grateful for the unity and development we see today. This milestone is a testament to the resilience and faith of Uganda’s Muslims,” she remarked.
The ceremony also featured international contributions. Renowned Islamic scholar Dr Zakir Naik delivered a lecture on the prophecy of Prophet Muhammad in the Bible, urging attendees to read scriptures directly to understand religions rather than judging them by their followers.
Dr Abdul Azizi bin Abdallah, Deputy Secretary General of the World Muslim League, applauded UMSC for its leadership and thanked the Ugandan government for its support. “We have been involved in stabilizing many African countries, and it is a privilege to witness the unity and development of Uganda’s Muslim community,” he said.
Khairat Nakirijja from Luweero district and Twaliha Shafik Inomugisha from Kiruhura district were rewarded each with a brand new car after emerging winners of the National Qur’an competitions.
