UPDF Appeals to Mufti to Promote Peace Ahead of Elections

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has appealed to the Mufti of Uganda, His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, to continue guiding Muslim clerics and the faithful to uphold peace and harmony before, during, and after the forthcoming national elections. A senior delegation of UPDF officers led by Maj. Gen. Henry Masiko, the UPDF Chief Political Commissar made the appeal, during a courtesy visit to the Mufti at the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) headquarters in Old Kampala.

Speaking during the meeting, Maj. Gen. Masiko said the visit was part of the duties outlined in the UPDF standing orders. He disclosed that the army had embarked on a series of engagements with mainstream religious leaders in Kampala to convey its commitment to safeguarding peace and stability across the country.

“We are aware that your messages are heard by the populace. We would therefore be grateful if harmony is promoted and the faithful are advised to remain calm during and after the election period,” Maj. Gen. Masiko said.

He further outlined four key areas through which his department engages with civilians, emphasizing that the UPDF is composed of professional and disciplined soldiers who are committed to serving the nation and will never turn against the population.

Upon arrival at the UMSC headquarters, the Mufti and the visiting officers held a closed-door meeting that lasted about an hour. The delegation later proceeded to the UMSC Boardroom, where they held a lively interaction with departmental heads during the weekly UMSC National Management Committee meeting.

Earlier, other senior officers, including Maj. Gen. Samuel Kawagga and Brig. Gen. Abdurahman Rugumayo, among others, shared insights on the importance of maintaining harmony, noting that peace remains vital for national development.

In his response, the Mufti briefed the delegation on the history of the UMSC from its inception to the present, noting that he assumed leadership twenty-five years ago. He also highlighted ongoing council activities, singling out the UMSC constitutional amendment process, which was fully sponsored by His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

“It has indeed helped to restore sanity within the Muslim community,” Mufti Mubaje said.

He further explained how mainstream religious groups came together to form the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) to foster harmony within communities. He concluded by assuring the visiting senior army officers that the UMSC remains committed to ensuring that Muslim clerics preach peace and mutual understanding among the faithful.

The delegation later held cordial interactions with UMSC departmental heads before departing. The meeting was attended by His Eminence Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa, the Deputy Mufti; His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Hafiz Muhammad Harunah Bukenya, the Second Deputy Mufti; Hon. Haji Abbas Muluubya Ssenkyanzi, the Secretary General; and his two deputies.