Iganga: In a solemn plea, Muslims from Iganga district, led by District Kadhi Hajj Sinani Muwanika, appealed to the Ugandan government to cease labeling them as Al-Shabaab and Al-Qaeda. The call was made during the Eid al-Fitr prayers held at Iganga Municipal Council Primary School.
The outcry stemmed from a recent incident at Nakivubo Stadium, where Muslims were invited for an iftar dinner but were met with brutality from security forces and police officers. This incident left the Muslim community deeply unsettled and demanded an apology from the authorities.
Chairman of the NRM Iganga District, Hajji Walubi Abubakar, echoed these sentiments, urging the government to apologize to the Muslim community. He emphasized the need for equity in treatment across all religious groups, highlighting instances where Muslims felt marginalized, particularly when security officers mistreated Hajji Muhammad Afan of Busei Nakalama.
Hajji Muhammad Afan, a resident of Busei in Nakalama Subcounty, is renowned for his contributions to education as a teacher at Busoga Muslim Schools. Despite his positive impact, he was wrongfully detained without explanation. The community, represented by Hajji Walubi, appealed for his immediate release.
Secretary of the Iganga District Muslim Supreme Council, Sheikh Lwigary Juma, expressed dismay at the government’s behavior, condemning the unjust treatment of Muslims. He emphasized the need for accountability, especially from President Museveni, urging him to address the misconduct of his officers and extend a formal apology to the Muslim community.
The incident at Nakivubo Stadium not only tarnished the spirit of Eid celebrations but also highlighted deeper issues of discrimination and prejudice faced by Muslims in Uganda. It is imperative for the government to rectify these injustices and foster inclusivity and respect for all religious groups.
