Muslims across the country have turned to prayer ahead of the upcoming national elections, with mosques nationwide holding special supplications for peace, stability and a calm electoral process.
The prayers followed a directive from the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, issued through the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC), urging Muslims to seek divine guidance and protection for the nation during the election period.
According to the UMSC Department of Religious Affairs, all mosques observed the special prayers, asking Almighty Allah to grant Uganda peace and avert any form of violence or instability as the country heads into elections in the coming weeks.
The main dedicational prayers were led by the Second Deputy Mufti, Sheikh Hafiz Muhammad Harunah Bukenya, on behalf of the Mufti, shortly after Juma prayers at the Uganda National Mosque on Old Kampala Hill.
Earlier, worshippers listened to a sermon delivered by Sheikh Hussein Ali Bulafu, a lecturer in Islamic Studies at the Islamic University in Uganda, who urged believers, political actors and election officials to uphold peace, responsibility and integrity throughout the electoral process.
“Leadership should never be sought through incitement or actions that divide the population,” Sheikh Bulafu said. “Political aspirants must avoid manipulating voters in ways that could plunge the country into chaos, while electoral officials must carry out their duties with professionalism and responsibility.”
During the supplications, Sheikh Bukenya prayed for wisdom, unity and peaceful coexistence among Ugandans as they prepare to choose their leaders.
“Oh Almighty Allah, the Creator, among Your ninety-nine attributes is peace. Grant us peace and stability in our motherland Uganda. Grant us special wisdom as we choose our national leaders who will lead us in prosperity and protect us from those who will not benefit us. Let us live under Your divine protection,” Sheikh Bukenya prayed.
Several dignitaries attended the prayers, including the Mufti of Uganda Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje; the UMSC Secretary General, Hajj Abbas Muluubya Ssekyanzi; his deputies; UMSC executives and departmental heads; former Uganda Electoral Commission chairperson Prof Badru Kiggundu; heads of international Muslim charitable organisations; former Muslim leaders; and other invited guests.
The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council has repeatedly called on Muslims and all Ugandans to embrace peace, unity and tolerance as the country approaches another critical electoral period.
