The Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, has called on politicians to accept the outcomes of the recently concluded general elections, stressing that democratic maturity requires civility in both victory and defeat.
Speaking during memorial prayers for the late Saidi Bizimungu at Kasambya Village in Watuba Sub-county, Kyankwanzi District, Mufti Mubaje reminded political actors that elections inevitably produce both winners and losers.
"Where there is electoral competition, winners must emerge," he said. "Civility requires that those who did not succeed accept the outcome and congratulate those who were successful, especially where the processes were genuine and the margins were clear."
The prayers were organised by the family of the late Bizimungu, whose children include Habibu Mutabazi, a member of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) General Assembly.
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Beyond politics, Mufti Mubaje urged Muslims to live righteously and remain steadfast in observing the will of Almighty Allah in their daily lives.
"Whoever strives in the cause of Allah, He will guide them on the straight path," he preached, citing the Holy Qur'an.
He praised the late Bizimungu for his longstanding contribution to Islamic development in the area, noting that he built a mosque, served faithfully as its treasurer, and also held the position of LC I chairperson for many years.
Mufti Mubaje reminded the congregation that when a righteous person dies, their deeds continue through three enduring legacies: beneficial knowledge shared with others, continuous charity such as building mosques, schools, or providing water, and God-fearing children who pray for the deceased.
"You should emulate the late Bizimungu," he advised.
He also encouraged Imams to actively participate in Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs) and urged those yet to register to do so promptly.
He noted that government budget allocations are underway to support SACCOs across Muslim districts.
Additionally, Mufti Mubaje called on Ugandans to take advantage of government poverty-alleviation programmes, particularly the Parish Development Model.
Several leaders addressed the gathering, including Sheikh Imran Ssali, UMSC Secretary for Religious Affairs, and Sheikh Hamid Sserwadda Busungu, Kampala Regional Assistant to the Mufti.
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Hajj Edris Sserugo Kasenene commended the current UMSC administration under Mufti Mubaje for promoting constitutionalism.
Sheikh Abdu Majed Mulinda, the host Kadhi of Kyankwanzi Muslim District, shared updates on Islamic activities in the district, while Ms Halima Nassali, East Buganda Regional Women Representative, spoke on behalf of her constituency.
