Kadhis for newly created UMSC West Nile districts take office

By Issa Kigongo

Kadhis for the six newly created Muslim districts in West Nile have officially assumed office as the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council intensifies efforts to decentralise Muslim leadership and strengthen administrative structures at the grassroots.

UMSC’s Secretary for Religious Affairs, Sheikh Imran Abdunoor Ssali, represented the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramathan Mubaje, during the installation ceremonies for the Kadhis of Obongi, Bidi Bidi, Madi-Okollo, Terego, Zombo and Nebbi Muslim districts.

The climax of the weeklong activities was held on Friday, May 15, at Nebbi Main Mosque, where Sheikh Isa Akugizibwe was sworn in as Kadhi of Nebbi Muslim District following the resignation of Sheikh Abdu-Karim Ongei.

Speaking at the function, the chairperson of the UMSC Electoral Commission, Abubakar Were Wadangho, dismissed claims that the commission had been compromised to eliminate some candidates during the nomination process.

Wadangho said the commission received six nominations, but only two candidates met the required academic qualifications.

“The electorate made six nominations for our consideration, but only two candidates proceeded to the next stage involving scrutiny of qualifications and interviews,” he said.

He urged Muslims in Nebbi to shun divisions and rally behind the new leadership for the development of the Muslim community.

Elsewhere in West Nile, Sheikh Abdu-Azizz Kassimu Amin was installed as Kadhi of Zombo Muslim District, while Sheikh Said Omar Dramani took charge of Terego Muslim District.

At Rhino Camp Town Council headquarters, Sheikh Abdul Wahid Juma Ceaser was sworn in as Kadhi of Madi-Okollo Muslim District.

Meanwhile, Sheikh Zubeir Achile assumed leadership of Bidi Bidi Muslim District in Yumbe, while Sheikh Juma Adam Sebbi Gimara now heads Obongi Muslim District.

Leaders at the various functions appealed to local government authorities to support the new Muslim administrations, particularly in securing and registering mosque land reportedly threatened by encroachment.

In a message delivered by Sheikh Ssali, the Mufti outlined key priorities for the new leadership, including promoting unity, justice, education, economic empowerment and stronger interfaith cooperation.

“Progress will only be achieved through cooperation, mutual respect and collective responsibility,” the Mufti said.