Mbale Muslim community rocked by land mismanagement claims

Members of the Mbale Muslim community accused their leaders of misappropriating funds intended for reclaiming a swampy venue and even selling part of the land.

In a recent gathering of believers from 12 mosques in Mbale City, accusations of land mismanagement and sale have surfaced, causing a stir among the local Muslim community.

Eid prayers were held at the proposed Muslim Supreme Council prayer ground, where the faithful expressed frustration over the perceived diversion of funds and resources by their leaders.

The shift from the usual "seka kali" mosque to the new venue raised eyebrows among believers, many of whom had to navigate potholed and muddy roads to access it.

The supreme council prayer ground was described by some attendees as being below their expectations, leading to speculation about its utilization and integrity.

Members of the Mbale Muslim community accused their leaders of misappropriating funds intended for reclaiming a swampy venue and even selling part of the land.

This sentiment was echoed by some attendees who expressed disappointment at the state of affairs and questioned the motives behind the decision to relocate the gathering.

“all along they have been telling us that our land is good but. My disappointment is that the place is waterlogged we are just squeezed” Rajab Wamawungo.

“For 24 years we have been making contributions to rehabilitate this place but there is no significant impact on ground” said Ibrahim Manana attributing the problem embezzlement of funds by leaders.

Notable figures such as NRM Women League chairperson Lydia Wanyoto, Mbale City Industrial Division MP Karim Masaba, Mayor Cassim Namugali, Northern Division deputy resident city commissioner Yahya Were, and Industrial Division Speaker Musa Kasajja were present at the gathering.

In an interview, district khadi Ahamada Masaba Pole assured attendees that the land equivalent of 25 acres was intact and under his custody.

“We got a lease for 44 years 20 years ago and I recently verifies with Lands that the status has not changed,” said the khadi.

He emphasised that the criticism reflected a sense of ownership and concern within the community and urged believers to seek accurate information from their leaders rather than relying on baseless rumors.

Furthermore, the Eid message delivered during the gathering stressed the importance of unity of purpose, particularly in light of ongoing rivalry over the Supreme Mufti position.

This call for unity comes at a crucial time for the community, as internal divisions threaten to undermine their collective efforts.

Addressing concerns about misinformation and disinformation, Northern Division Deputy Resident Commissioner Yahya Were urged for the productive use of social media to prevent the spread of false information and promote transparency within the community.

As the Mbale Muslim community grapples with these allegations and challenges, the need for open communication, accountability, and unity remains paramount in ensuring the well-being and prosperity of all its members.

Meanwhile, Chinese manufacturers have donated goodies worth millions towards Muslim clerics.

The items including clothing, bedding, household items and hard cash were handed over to the delegation led by Mbale City Mayor Cassim Namugali at Sino Uganda Mbale Industrial Park.