UMSC to commemorate Muslim martyrs annually

The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) has announced a series of events to annually commemorate Muslim Martyrs, aimed at reminding Muslims of their past and promoting tolerance.

Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, made this announcement.

During the Muslim Martyrs Day commemoration at the UMSC headquarters, Sheikh Mubaje emphasized the significance of the sacrifices made by the Muslim Martyrs.

He stated, "They acted with the knowledge they had and gave up their lives standing for what they believed in."

Sheikh Mubaje also highlighted the lack of awareness among the younger generation regarding the historical struggles endured by their forefathers due to Islam.

He stressed the importance of preserving history to avoid repeating past mistakes and to prevent misconceptions among the youth that Islam allows for unaccountable actions.

Considering the minority status of Muslims in Uganda, Sheikh Mubaje emphasized the importance of responsible behavior among Muslims.

He reflected on his 24 years of leadership and highlighted the challenges faced by UMSC, as well as their commitment to fostering unity and development.

Sheikh Mubaje drew parallels between the obedience and adherence to truth exhibited by the Muslim Martyrs and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.

Regarding the theme of the day, "Tolerance: A Solution to Bigotry," the Mufti attributed the martyrdom of the Muslim Martyrs to ignorance, emphasizing the role of knowledge in promoting tolerance.

He stated, "Ignorance is a disease," and stressed the need for continuous learning and seeking knowledge to combat bigotry and ignorance.

Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa delivered a moving presentation that highlighted various historical episodes leading to the martyrdom of early Muslim converts during religious wars in Buganda Kingdom and Busoga.

It almost repeated in the aftermath when the late President Idi Amin was ousted from power in 1979.

The government was commended for fostering a peaceful and stable nation that has enabled collaboration between Muslims and Christians.

The formation of the Interreligious Council, which has made significant progress in promoting the common good and building bridges of tolerance against all forms of bigotry, was also acknowledged.

Several speakers emphasized the challenges faced by the Martyrs and emphasized the need for Muslims to remain committed, honest, and true to themselves. They highlighted the role of knowledge in combating bigotry and martyrdom and advocated for a continued pursuit of education.

Dr. Sheikh Ziyad Swaleh Lubanga, the UMSC Director of Sharia, presented a concept paper providing an overview of various martyrdoms in Islam. Sheikhat Radhiyya Namakula Khamis, Secretary for Women and Children Affairs, delivered a paper on behalf of Owek. Prof. Badru Ddungu Kateregga, focusing on the spread and development of Islam and the contributions made by the Muslim Martyrs.