The Mufti of Uganda, Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, has condemned the ongoing violence in the Middle East, describing the widespread killing of civilians as inhuman and unacceptable, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.
Speaking at the burial of prominent Muslim cleric Sheikh Abdu-Majid Abubakar Muyangu, the Mufti expressed deep concern over the loss of innocent lives, including women, children and the elderly caught up in the conflict.
"The widespread killings of civilians in the ongoing war are totally inhuman and unacceptable, especially during this holy month of Ramadan," he said.
He added that even senior religious figures such as Ayatollah Ali Khamenei were not being spared, underscoring what he described as the gravity of the crisis and the urgent need for restraint.
Follow us on WhatsApp | LinkedIn for the latest headlines
The Mufti used the solemn gathering to call for peace, unity and adherence to Islamic teachings among Muslims in Uganda.
Addressing mourners at the family's ancestral home, he urged believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to avoid divisions.
"I reiterate my message to the Muslim faithful to always adhere to the Islamic faith as ordained in the Holy Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad. Maintain peace, brotherhood and unity in diversity," he said.
He cautioned against adopting practices that fuel sectarianism, recalling internal conflicts within Uganda's Muslim community in the 1980s and 1990s that stemmed from minor theological differences.
"Despite differences, anyone who sincerely declares that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah and that Prophet Muhammad is His messenger is your brother," he emphasised.
The Mufti also issued guidance on Islamic burial practices, noting that rites observed in Uganda largely follow the interpretations of Imam Shafi'i.
He expressed concern about practices introduced by some clerics trained in Arab countries, including leaving bodies uncovered during burial ceremonies.
"In order to safeguard the dignity of the deceased and respect for the grieving family, I urge all Muslims to cover caskets during burials," he directed.
Mourners welcomed the guidance, with family members placing a green cloth over the casket in response.
Clarifying cultural expressions of respect within Islamic practice, the Mufti said gestures such as a Muslim woman kneeling while addressing her husband should be understood as cultural signs of respect rather than acts of worship.
He compared this to certain Arab customs of greeting superiors by pecking foreheads, cheeks or the back of palms, stressing the importance of understanding cultural context within Islamic teachings.
Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters
Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox
The late Sheikh Abdu-Majid Abubakar Muyangu served for decades as a teacher at Nahadha Islamic Institute in Bukakaire, Namalemba, a school founded by his elder brother, Sheikh Ali Bakari.
The Mufti praised the family for their contribution to propagating Islam in Uganda and urged Muslims to emulate their dedication by prioritising Islamic education for their children.
He concluded by calling on the faithful to use the holy month as a time for reflection, reconciliation and renewed commitment to unity.
