It was prayers, power, and warning shots at the Old Kampala Mosque on Eid al-Adha as Uganda’s Grand Mufti, Sheikh Shaban Ramadan Mubaje, thundered against political exploitation of mosques and ripped into the Uganda Hajj Bureau over a shocking pilgrimage visa scam. Addressing thousands of believers packed at the iconic mosque, Sheikh Mubaje gave his […]
It was prayers, power, and warning shots at the Old Kampala Mosque on Eid al-Adha as Uganda’s Grand Mufti, Sheikh Shaban Ramadan Mubaje, thundered against political exploitation of mosques and ripped into the Uganda Hajj Bureau over a shocking pilgrimage visa scam.
Addressing thousands of believers packed at the iconic mosque, Sheikh Mubaje gave his Eid sermon with a sting, reminding Muslims of the sacred meaning of the day, and at the same time, sending a stern message to religious leaders and politicians.
“No more politics on the pulpit. We must not turn mosques into campaign zones. That’s not what they are for” Mubaje declared.
As the 2026 general elections draw near, the Mufti warned Muslim leaders and mosque committees at all levels to stop using Friday sermons and Islamic events for political propaganda and dirty games that divide the Ummah.
Mubaje tore into the government’s Hajj program, revealing that of the 100 pilgrims sponsored this year, only a few made it to Mecca. He accused the Uganda Hajj Bureau of diverting visas meant for Ugandans and selling them to foreigners.
“We have proof. Since last year, the same fraud is happening. This year again, they sold off the visas. We are watching.” he said angrily.
In a moment of passion, Mubaje also spoke about the painful association of Islam with terrorism.
“Islam is a religion of peace. But every time there is a bombing, the word ‘Muslim’ is thrown around. That must stop” he said.
And just when the gossip mill thought Sheikh Mubaje would step down after turning 70, the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council explained why they’re keeping him in office.
The Deputy Chairperson UMSC Muzamul Abon said: “We looked around and couldn’t find a better choice.We want Islam to grow, so we extended his term.”
He said it’s focusing on delivering for the Muslim community, not clapping back at critics.
“Ignore those spreading propaganda. They don’t speak for the real Muslim leadership in Uganda,” he said.
Muslims slaughter goats, sheep, and cows to mark Eid al-Adha.
