Muslim areas still lack justice, law, says leaders

Muslim leaders say dropping out of school has fuelled ignorance. They called for more trainings to change people’s attitude towards the law.

Justice and law are still lacking in rural areas, especially in Muslim communities, leaders have said. During a workshop organised by Muslim activists, Muslim Centre for Justice and law (MCJL) at Lukalu Mosque in Butambala last Friday, Sheikh Yahaya Musoke said most of the Muslims in the district know Arabic language but find it difficult to read and understand the Constitution which is in English.

“Ignorance is increasing because more people are dropping out of school after getting pregnant below 18 years and others are forced into marriage when they are still young,” Sheikh Musoke said.

The senior human rights officer and head of training at MCJL, Mr Musa Ntambi said although there are a few educated Muslims, they should attend meetings where someone can interpret the law for them.

Mr Ntambi, who donated copies of laws to Muslims such as the Penal Code Act, Title Act, Succession Act and Local Council Act said they would help them fight for their rights.

Outreach campaigns
In 2010, Muslims started organising workshops to teach justice and law in their communities concentrating in Butambala and Kampala because they are dominated by followers.

Although MCJL translated the acts, it said more trainings should be conducted so that people change their minds and attitudes on justice and law.

snakirigya@ug.nationmdia.com