Mufti team shifts venue after protests from rivals

Masaka.

The Muslim faction led by Mufti Shaban Mubajje has bowed to pressure from the Kibuli group and switched venue for their unity prayers planned for today in Masaka District.

Mr Linos Ngompek, the Resident District Commissioner, told Daily Monitor that following negotiations with Mufti Mubajje’s team, they agreed to hold their function at Kitenga Mosque and not at Masaka Main Mosque as was earlier planned to avert a possible crisis.

“We don’t intend to stand against the interests of either side, but we are prioritising security of both parties so that they enjoy peace as they conduct prayers. We found out that we may not be in position to maintain harmony when the two groups meet at one point,” Mr Ngompek said.

Mufti Mubajje’s office had written to the police in Masaka last month, notifying them about his intended visit in the area.

However, Muslim leaders in greater Masaka loyal to the Kibuli-based leader Zubairu Kayongo rejected the plan, claiming they were not notified in advance.

Led by Sheikh Swaibuh Ndugga, the greater Masaka District Khadi, the clerics wrote to the RDC notifying him that they were not ready to host the event.

They argued that the intention of the visit was unclear and feared that the Old Kampala group could take advantage and seize control of management of the main mosque.

Sheikh Bruhane Bagunduse, the parallel district Khadi, said they accepted the advice, adding that the Mufti would commission a new Mosque in Kitenga, among other activities.

failed attempt
This is the second attempt by Mufti Mubajje faction to gain access to Masaka Main mosque. The first attempt was during the enthronement of Sheikh Bruhane Bagunduse as the elected District Kadhi in 2013. The district Main mosque houses the designated offices of the District Khadi.