Cleric blames failed marriages on neglect of marital duties

By Issa Kigongo

Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) Religious Affairs Secretary Sheikh Imran Abdunoor Ssali has warned newlyweds that neglecting their marital responsibilities can undermine a marriage, urging couples to approach family life with commitment, patience and consciousness of Allah.

Sheikh Ssali said many of the marital disputes handled by Muslim leadership structures stem from couples failing to understand or fulfil their responsibilities to each other.

“Most of the files we have in our offices are of couples who have failed to handle their responsibilities,” he said.

He made the remarks on Saturday, September 5, 2026, during the Nikah of Shahiira Ndawula and Muniru Mbosera Watuwa at Gaddafi National Mosque in Old Kampala.

Sheikh Ssali urged Watuwa to carry out his responsibilities as a husband with grace, saying a man’s strength in marriage should be reflected in how he fulfils his duties rather than in raising his voice.

He similarly encouraged Shahiira to fulfil her responsibilities as a wife, saying mutual commitment was essential to building a stable home.

The Sheikh urged the couple to remain conscious of Allah and to be patient with each other as they begin married life. He also congratulated them and prayed that Allah bless their union, protect them from harm and grant them a fruitful marriage.

UMSC calls for marriage

Haj Counsel Muhammad Ali Aluma, UMSC Deputy Secretary General in charge of Finance and Administration, represented Mufti Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, commended Watuwa, a Parliament employee, for helping strengthen relations between UMSC and Parliament.

“UMSC is appreciative of your support,” Aluma said.

Aluma urged Muslim parents to encourage their children to marry, saying marriage plays an important role in maintaining a stable society.

He cautioned young people against making wealth and material possessions the main considerations when choosing marriage partners.

He also advised couples to resolve disagreements within their homes rather than taking their disputes into the public.