Sheikh Bukenya confirmed as 2nd Deputy Mufti

By Ahmed Idriss
The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) joint session on Wednesday confirmed Sheikh Hafidh Muhammad Haruna Bukenya’s appointment as the substantive 2nd Deputy Mufti of Uganda.
The joint session is comprised of members of national executive committee and the College of eminent Sheikhs, and is chaired by the UMSC national chairperson Prof Muhammadi Lubega Kisambira. Sheikh Imran Abdnoor Ssali, the secretary for religious affairs, presented the outcome of the selection process.
He explained that applicants were invited for the vacant position and subjected to interviews. Sheikh Bukenya emerged as the top candidate among nine contenders due to his extensive qualifications, including his scholarly background, experience in Islamic leadership, and
commitment to the Muslim community.
Mahmood Katerega Namuguzi, a member of the executive committee, supported the appointment, noting that Sheikh Bukenya meets all the required qualifications for the position.
He was seconded by Sheikh Juma Mangalya, a member of the College of Sheikhs. Until his appointment last year, Sheikh Bukenya was the Khadi of Kayunga Muslim district. He replaces Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa, who was elevated to the position of deputy Mufti following the impeachment of Sheikh Abdullah Ssemambo Tamusuza.
The joint session also approved the establishment of four new Muslim districts; Bugweri, Buyende, Kyegegwa, and Namutumba in a bid to enhance administrative efficiency and expand the council’s presence across the country.