Likely clash of Muslim factions causes tension in Budaka

By David Omoding 

There was a tension in Budaka district this morning as muslim factions threatened  to clash. The factions at the centre of the anticipated clash are the Old Kampala faction of Uganda Muslim Supreme Council and those from Kibuli sect.

The tension was sparked by Budaka district Khadi Sheik Hassan Muzamiru Kidandaire mobilizing fellow Muslims in the district to turn up in big numbers to have a peaceful demonstration against what he said a planned break away of some Muslims in the district.

In his messages on several forums including radio announcements, Kidandaire called upon all the Muslims to join him this morning at 8:00am for a peaceful procession starting from his office to Saza ground the venue where the Kibuli sect WAS scheduled to hold their function in protest.

Kidandaire accused the Kibuli sect of plotting to instal their own district khadi which would divide the Muslim community in the area.

‘’I cannot allow fools from Kampala to come and disorganize my Muslims who have been peaceful and united if they want let them go and hold their function in Kampala but not here, why is it that they are no such functions in districts of Butaleja, Butebu or Pallisa?’’ the visibly irritated Khadi said.

However, Ali Bizubu the chairperson organizing committee for today’s function dismissed Kidandaire’s allegations that the function was aimed at bringing disunity among the Muslims faithful.

He said the function which would be officiated by Supreme Mufti Sheik Suleiman Kasule flanked by supreme Dawa of Uganda Sheik Muzata would see the inauguration of their district Khadi’s from the five districts of Pallisa, Mbale, Budaka, Butaleja and Sironko.

The deligation is also expected to officially open the office of the Supreme district Khadi for the Kibuli sect.

Bizibu said Kidandaire has no authority to stop their function and they will go on.

Following this clash, the District Security Committee headed by the RDC Mr. Martine Oroch called for the crisis meeting to reconcile the two parties.

Journalists were barred from the meeting this morning.

While briefing the media shortly after the meeting, Oroch said the two functions had reached an agreement that the function should go on.

He warned the organizers to desist from turning the event into political rally saying he would not hesitate to break it apart.

He blamed the district Khadi for failing to give a substantial reason in writing as to why he wanted the function cancelled.

He advised the Khadi to immediately withdraw the announcement calling for a peaceful demonstration saying he will personally be liable.

He directed the DPC to heavily deploy at the venue to ensure law and order during and after the function.

After the meeting Kidandaire asked his followers to remain at their homes.

Budaka district chairperson Mr. Sam Mulomi who also attended the meeting declined to comment.

More updates to follow.