A group of concerned Muslims, led by Sheikh Ali Ndawula from Luweero District, has submitted a formal petition to Speaker of Parliament Among, challenging the re-election of Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje as Mufti of Uganda.
The petitioners argue that his re-election violates the 1972 Muslim Constitution.
They are demanding his immediate retirement, as his tenure ended on March 12, 2025, in accordance with the amended constitution.
“Since Sheikh Mubaje’s tenure concluded on March 12, 2025, in line with the amended constitution, he should retire immediately. The government may consider deploying him to serve in other capacities,” the petition states.
In an effort to maintain unity and cooperation within the Muslim community, the petitioners suggest that the Mufti’s deputy should temporarily assume the position until a new election can be held.
“The UMSC constitution provides that the first deputy mufti should assume leadership for 60 days, during which time a proper election for a new Mufti should be organized in accordance with the constitution,” the petition adds.
Sheikh, who has served as Mufti of Uganda since his election on December 11, 2000, has faced both successes and challenges during his leadership. However, his tenure officially ended on March 12, 2025, when he turned 70, in accordance with the constitutional age limit.
To the surprise and dismay of many, a joint session of the Majilis Ulaama and the Executive Committee selected Sheikh Mubaje for a new term on March 13, 2025, defying the amended constitution.
The petition underscores a critical concern: the Ugandan government allocated over two billion shillings to fund the UMSC constitutional review process and the election of new office-bearers. The unlawful re-election of Sheikh is viewed as a serious violation of the amended constitution, prompting the petitioners to call on Parliament to uphold the law.
The petition also warns that his continued leadership could have negative repercussions for Uganda’s relations with international Muslim-majority countries.
“We are aware that countries such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey, and others in the Arab League have threatened to suspend support for vulnerable communities in Uganda. This could place a significant burden on the government,” the petitioners caution.
According to Article 5 (7) of the original 1972 UMSC constitution, both the Mufti and Deputy Mufti must retire upon reaching 70 years of age. Having turned 70 on March 12, 2025, Sheikh Mubaje should have stepped down. Furthermore, under Article 5 (9) of the amended UMSC constitution, a Mufti is allowed only one 10-year term and cannot be re-elected once that term has expired.
The petitioners are calling for Sheikh Mubaje’s immediate retirement and for a proper election to choose a new Mufti, in strict adherence to the UMSC constitution.
