Islam is a religion of peace, says Mbale City Khad

__________________

Muslim leaders have urged their communities to embody the core principles of peace, justice, and mercy in their daily lives.

This message was delivered by Mbale City Khad, Pole Masaba, during the Eid al-Fitr prayers held at the Supreme Ground in the Industrial City Division.

Thousands of Muslims gathered at the Supreme Ground to observe the Eid al-Fitr prayers, including Mbale City Woman Member of Parliament, Lydia Wanyoto Mutende, and Karim Masaba, the Deputy Resident City Commissioner for Mbale Northern City Division.

Masaba emphasised that the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad frequently highlight that peace is the essence of Islam.

He stated that Muslims are commanded to uphold justice and respond to aggression with patience and peace, rather than resorting to violence.

"Islam is described as a religion of peace, with 'salaam' (peace) being a fundamental value and one of the names of Allah," Masaba explained. He added that fighting is only permissible in self-defence or to repel oppression, and even then, strict ethical guidelines must be followed.

He noted that the vast majority of Muslims and Islamic scholars believe that terrorism is not justified by the Quran or Islamic law.

He urged Muslims to show mercy to all, respect human life, and act as a positive influence in their communities, especially during holy times like Ramadan and Eid.

"Extremism and violence committed in the name of Islam are widely condemned, and such actions are seen as contrary to the teachings of the religion," he said.

The Deputy RCC of the Northern City Division urged Muslims to actively participate in poverty alleviation programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, and Operation Wealth Creation to increase household incomes.

He clarified that these initiatives are halal-compliant (free of interest) and aim to boost economic empowerment while reducing reliance on begging.

He referred to these programs as non-interest grants for households, encouraging investments in agriculture. He advised Muslims to promote financial activities that ensure the fair distribution of wealth, in line with Islamic finance principles.

Lydia Wanyoto Mutende, the elected woman member of Parliament for Mbale City, called for increased investment in education to boost representation and skill levels within the Muslim community, specifically addressing youth unemployment.

Wanyoto highlighted that these programs are crucial for economic transformation, aiming to integrate local communities into the money economy.

Karim Masaba, the elected Member of Parliament for the Mbale Industrial City Division, has called for unity among Muslims, emphasising the importance of collaboration among both political and religious leaders.

He urged Muslim leaders to prioritise unity and development while avoiding divisive forces that could weaken the community. Masaba also encouraged Muslims to take advantage of Ramadan as a time to resolve disputes.