Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda, has urged Ugandans to guard against dirty politics that breed hatred, violence, and conflict. In a message delivered by his Assistant for the East Buganda Muslim region, Sheikh Mustafa Khamis Lule, the Mufti emphasized the need for politics that foster unity and national development.
Sheikh Lule conveyed this fatherly advice during memorial prayers for the late Amin Ssemakula, a renowned Democratic Party stalwart, held at the family residence in Nsangi, Wakiso District, on Sunday, May 4, 2025. Praising the late Ssemakula, Sheikh Lule described him as an exemplary figure who balanced his strong Islamic faith with active political involvement.
“He was very loyal to the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) and all Muslim leaders, including the Mufti, adhered firmly to his Democratic Party (DP) principles, and, above all, was a law-abiding citizen,” he noted. Sheikh Lule urged especially politicians to emulate the late Ssemakula’s integrity and commitment to peaceful engagement.
Additionally, Sheikh Lule condemned the misuse of social media, where insults against national leaders, character assassination, falsehoods, and hate speech have become rampant. He called for restraint, warning that such behavior could undermine peace as the country heads into the forthcoming general elections.
Echoing the Mufti’s message, Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, Minister for Kampala City Metropolitan Affairs, called on Ugandans to embrace tolerance despite political differences. “The late Amin Ssemakula was my friend, yet I am a staunch supporter of the ruling party. I call upon opposition party activists to learn to tolerate others,” she remarked.
The event also featured speeches from other prominent figures, including Hon. Gerald Siranda, Secretary General of the Democratic Party and Member of the East African Legislative Assembly; Zake Mawula, Mayor of Lubaga Division; and family representatives such as the widow and Yasin Ssimwogerere, who was declared the heir. Also in attendance were Sheikh Habib Musa Mawanda, Personal Private Secretary to the Mufti, alongside area Muslim leaders and other dignitaries.