Muslims have been urged to avoid divisions and instead focus on building the nation by promoting unity, justice and peaceful coexistence within the Islamic faith.
The call was contained in a message from the Vice President, Maj. Jessica Alupo, delivered by the Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, during a thanksgiving ceremony organised by the Structured Imams and Amirats Assembly of Uganda. The event was held to appreciate President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for annually facilitating Muslim pilgrims with Hajj opportunities.
The ceremony attracted Muslims from different parts of the country led by the Assembly Chairperson, Hajji Sheikh Said Kasawuli, who commended President Museveni for what they described as his generosity in supporting Muslims to fulfil the Islamic pilgrimage.
Delivering the Vice President's message, Hajjat Kabanda applauded Muslims for their efforts to foster unity and expressed appreciation for their continued support of the country's leadership.
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"Muslims should avoid division and instead unite in building the nation. Let us promote unity and justice, and teach our children values of patriotism and peaceful coexistence," the Vice President's message read.
Beneficiaries of the Hajj programme also thanked President Museveni and appealed for an increase in the number of Hajj slots allocated through Sheikh Kasawuli's office, saying the arrangement has enabled deserving Muslims to benefit.
Speaking at the event, Hajji Sheikh Said Kasawuli criticised what he described as attempts by some individuals to frustrate efforts aimed at uniting Muslims.
"There are people who continue to oppose and discourage our efforts, even boycotting programmes like this one. Such actions only delay the progress we have worked hard to achieve," Sheikh Kasawuli said.»
Kasawuli also explained that the Hajj opportunities requested from the President are intended mainly for Imams and Muslims who cannot afford the pilgrimage.
"Some people with financial means have benefited from these opportunities, leaving only a few places for those who genuinely need support. Even the number we request from the President is not always fully granted," he added.»
Maj. Ndiwalana, an aide to Gen. Salim Saleh, and Parliament Imam, Ismail Lubega, also called on Muslims to remain united and actively participate in initiatives that promote national development.
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Participants at the ceremony praised Sheikh Kasawuli for his leadership and commitment to fostering unity among Muslims across Uganda
