Keep your names clean, Imam Kasozi tells MPs

By Issa Kigongo

In a Friday sermon at Parliament, renowned cleric, Imam Idi Kasozi warned Muslim members of Parliament to steer clear of corruption scandals, warning that their conduct in public office has a bearing on the reputation and political prospects of the wider Muslim community.

He said Muslim legislators should uphold integrity and avoid actions that could bring the Ummah into disrepute.

He noted that while the number of Muslim MPs had risen from 50 in the previous Parliament to 62 in the current legislature, the community could secure even greater representation if its leaders maintained clean records and earned public trust.

“While you joined Parliament as representatives of your respective constituencies, you are Muslims and, therefore, representatives of the Ummah. What we ask of you is not to embarrass us,” Imam Kasozi said.

He cautioned the legislators against engaging in corruption or becoming embroiled in controversies, arguing that their personal conduct could influence how Muslim candidates are perceived by voters in future elections.

“Don’t involve yourselves in corruption and any other controversies because if there are no scandals written against your names, the entire Ummah will share the credit, thereby making Muslim candidates in future elections more trustable by the electorate,” he added.

His message came against the backdrop of his broader message on responsible leadership, which he emphasised during the inter-religious thanksgiving service for the 12th Parliament held on October 23.

He called on leaders to promote peace, reconciliation and security, arguing that lasting peace must emerge through practical action, describing it as a state of tranquillity and order that develops naturally rather than through force. He also cautioned that fear and intimidation cannot produce lasting harmony.

The chairman of the Muslim Parliamentary Caucus, Hassan Kirumira Lukalidde, pledged the caucus’ commitment to reviving the Qadhi Courts Bill, which lapsed with the end of the 11th Parliament.

The Bill, initially tabled by former caucus chairman Asuman Basalirwa, was not among the parliamentary business carried forward from the previous Parliament, meaning the process would have to start afresh.

Lukalidde said the caucus would work towards reintroducing the proposed law, reaffirming its commitment to advancing the interests of Islam.