MUSLIMS | TABLIQS | MWANJE

KAMPALA - The Tabliq community's deputy imam, Sheikh Yahaya Mwanje, has condemned the corrupt behaviours of political figures who, in his view, are supposed to be role models but instead serve as a danger to the nation by setting a bad example for school-age children. 

Speaking during Eid-al-Fitr on Friday, Mwanje said that since the example leaders have set has seemingly normalized corruption, some young people get tempted to do so at a tender age. 

"Stop assuming that you have been given anything to eat when you are given something to convey to someone else," said Mwanje.

A Muslim Tabliq member carries a child into the Mosque during the Eid-al-Alftr day at their Mosque in Kampala, this was on April 21, 2023. (All Photos by Jimmy Outa)

His comments came amid the evolving iron sheets scandal, which has had leading government officials implicated. Some ministers have been arrested, charged and appeared in court as the investigation continues.

Some have since returned the iron sheets to the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) stores following President Yoweri Museveni's guidance to them to either return the items or pay an equivalent of their value.

A mother and her child arrive for prayers.

The diverted iron sheets were meant for the vulnerable people of Karamoja.

Mwanje offered advice to political leaders, thus:

"Always be cautious when delivering what has been handed to you, and if you are unable to do so, inform the authority. 

"Never take something that is not yours, as the owner will always demand payment from you.

Sheikh Yunus Kamoga, the Amiir Tabliqs during the Eid-al-Alftr day at their Mosque in Kampala on April 21, 2023.

"Let’s work on Muslim principles, our principles are holy, and that is how we shall last longer."

The deputy imam added that "it is our responsibility as leaders to show the young ones what is supposed to be done by using it for".

Meanwhile, Sheikh Yunus Kamoga, who also attended the prayers, said "our laws condemn those involved in corruption-related activities to hell, and they shouldn't be sympathized with".