Mufti Mubajje Critiques Museveni Cabinet for Underrepresentation of Muslims

The leading religious figure for Muslims in Uganda, Mufti Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje, has expressed disappointment regarding the composition of President Yoweri Museveni’s latest Cabinet appointments. Speaking during Eid-ul-Adhuha prayers at the Gaddafi National Mosque, Sheikh Mubajje stated that the new executive does not adequately reflect the Muslim community’s contributions and support to the nation.

Mufti Mubajje highlighted that upon reviewing the new list, he observed a “small slice” of Muslim representation, noting that Muslim names only began appearing significantly further down the list. He urged the government to “look into the sacrifice and the support which the Muslims raised,” emphasizing that the community has been united in its support and deserves a more substantial presence in national leadership.

Concerns over religious balance in government have been reignited by these comments. An analysis of the newly formed Cabinet indicates that Muslims hold only two of the 30 full ministerial positions. Minsa Kabanda (KCCA) and Lukia Nakadama (Third Deputy Prime Minister) are the Muslim representatives in the full Cabinet. In the junior ministerial roles, approximately seven out of 51 positions are held by Muslims.

The Mufti also appealed to Muslim leaders who have been appointed to government roles. He implored them to prioritize the unity of the Muslim community, in addition to their national duties, and to avoid actions that could exacerbate divisions. The prayers themselves saw a large turnout, with worshippers filling the mosque and surrounding areas.

According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics, Muslims constitute between 13.2% and 13.6% of Uganda’s population, numbering around 6.05 million people. The perception of underrepresentation persists among some community leaders, who argue that Uganda’s diverse religious landscape should be more equitably mirrored in its executive appointments.

This criticism comes after a significant Cabinet reshuffle on May 26, which saw some prominent Muslim figures, like former Second Deputy Prime Minister Moses Ali, moved out of their positions. The debate underscores ongoing discussions about religious equity and inclusivity in Uganda’s governance structure.

Source: Daily Monitor