The Third Deputy Prime Minister, Lukia Isanga Nakadama, has called upon Muslims to stop internal conflicts and criticism of government, urging them instead to unite in order to achieve their goals.
Speaking during special prayers held at the Old Kampala National Mosque ahead of the presidential swearing-in ceremony, Nakadama said:
“Muslims should stop fighting among themselves and criticizing government. Unity and cooperation are what will help them achieve their objectives.”
The prayers, organized by government, were led by the Second Deputy Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Dr. Muhammad Haruna Bukenya. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including former Electoral Commission chairperson Badru Kiggundu and Presidential Advisor on Buganda Affairs Joseph Ssewava.
During his sermon, Sheikh Bukenya praised President Museveni for what he described as the government’s contribution to the Muslim community compared to previous years.
“The Muslim community has made significant progress compared to where it came from in the past,” Sheikh Bukenya noted.
He, however, appealed to government to increase Muslim representation in leadership positions, saying Islam is one of the country’s major and long-established religions.
Nakadama also revealed that government has prepared new programs aimed at supporting the Muslim community.
Meanwhile, Joseph Ssewava commended Muslims for the support and goodwill they have shown President Museveni and encouraged them to remain united for the sake of dialogue and development.