Muslim leaders and government employees in Bukomansimbi District have expressed frustration over the delayed disbursement of government salaries this month, fearing it will negatively impact Muslim workers as they prepare for Eid celebrations.
The Muslims claim that while salaries are usually released before major religious holidays, the same courtesy is not extended to Eid, leaving Muslim employees struggling during the festive period.
Speaking at a special prayer gathering (Dhuwa) organized by Supreme Khadhi of Masaka, Sheikh Badru Wasajja Kiruuta, in his ancestral home in Kabigi, Bukomansimbi, Bukomansimbi District Khadhi, Sheikh Mohammed Mufti Ssenyondo, criticized the delay in salary payments.
Sheikh Ssenyondo revealed that he had received confirmation that government salaries in Bukomansimbi would be delayed, despite Eid falling within the period.
He questioned why payments are made on time for other religious holidays but not for Eid, which is equally significant to Muslims.
The Khadhi warned that many Muslim families, especially women, were likely to struggle financially because of the delay.
"The wives of Muslim employees are frustrated by this situation. Why should Muslims be forced to struggle on their holy day while other religious holidays are well-facilitated?" he questioned.
Meanwhile, Supreme Khadhi Sheikh Kiruuta urged wealthy Muslims to give generously in Zakat (charitable donations) to support those who might not afford Eid celebrations. He also called on government officials responsible for salary payments to be considerate of the Muslim community’s needs.
Community members, including Hassan Mukiibi and Nakabugo, urged Bukomansimbi residents to be cautious when electing leaders, ensuring they choose individuals who will advocate for their rights and not neglect service delivery.
