Tensions Flare at Masaka Main Mosque Over Leadership Dispute
Tensions have escalated at Masaka main mosque as a result of renewed misunderstandings within the top mosque leadership. The current crisis stems from the suspension of Sheikh Abasi Nseera, the Imam of Masaka main mosque, and Hajj Burahane Lugemwa, the General Secretary for Masaka Muslim District Council, who is affiliated with the Kibuli-based Muslim faction.
Sheikh Sulait Ssentongo, the Greater Masaka Regional Supreme Kadhi, officially announced the suspension of the duo on Wednesday afternoon. According to Sheikh Ssentongo, the suspension decision was made during a joint meeting of the Masaka Muslim district council and the Mosque Management Committees, based on allegations of professional misconduct and financial misappropriation.
However, the suspension announcement was met with strong opposition from a section of Muslims who staged a protest. Approximately fifteen agitated youths attempted to force their way into the Kadhi’s office, prompting the swift intervention of anti-riot police personnel, who were called to maintain order. Consequently, heightened security measures were enforced during the afternoon and evening prayers at the main mosque.
The group of Muslim faithful, led by Moses Tamale, Hakim Katumba, and Muhammad Nseera, expressed their discontent, accusing the management committees of pursuing selfish interests. They further alleged that the suspension was based on unfounded claims, asserting that the duo was being targeted for scrutinizing alleged exaggerated expenditures and demanding financial accountability for funds collected from the Muslim community.
Ismail Kazibwe, one of the aggrieved Muslim faithful, conveyed their determination to resist the suspension, emphasizing their belief that it was unjustified. Additionally, they considered petitioning the office of the Supreme Mufti, Sheikh Muhammad Shabban Galabuzi, seeking his intervention to address the ongoing conflicts arising from the perceived dominance of a particular faction in the regional leadership.
In response to the situation, Sheikh Ssentongo reiterated that the suspension of the duo remains in effect while the management committee initiates an investigation into the allegations. He appealed to the faithful to exercise patience and await the investigation report, while also assuring them that the mosque management is committed to maintaining order and avoiding any further confusion.
When contacted about the suspension, Sheikh Abasi Nseera stated that he has not yet received the formal suspension letter and, therefore, refrained from commenting on the matter until he receives official communication.
