UMSC orders Nakawa Kadhi to act on alleged Imam impersonation

By Issa Kigongo

The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) has directed the Nakawa Muslim District to investigate and take appropriate action over allegations that a man impersonated an Imam at Masjid Salaam in Ntinda, Kampala.

In a letter dated September 2, 2026, the UMSC Department of Religious Affairs asked Nakawa District Kadhi Sheikh Sserunjoji Zakiyyu Burhan to handle the matter involving a one Muhammad Abdullatif Kayanja, following a complaint lodged with the Council.

The letter, signed by UMSC Secretary for Religious Affairs Sheikh Ssali Imran Abdunoor, referred to an earlier complaint dated August 11 concerning the alleged impersonation.

The Council said the District Kadhi has the constitutional and administrative authority to intervene in matters involving Imams within the jurisdiction of a Muslim district.

“In accordance with the UMSC Constitution Article 24, the District Kadhi possesses the requisite constitutional and administrative mandate to step in, transfer, replace, or appoint an Imam,” the letter reads in part.

UMSC directed Sheikh Sserunjoji to proceed in accordance with the Council’s Constitution and established procedures.

The Department of Religious Affairs said the powers granted to District Kadhis are intended to safeguard administrative continuity and maintain order within Muslim communities.

It also offered to provide guidance and support to the Nakawa Muslim District as it handles the matter.