Muslim leaders ask government for security

By S. Nakandha

Kibuli Muslim leaders have asked the Government to provide them with security following the death of two believers in the city in two months.

“We seem to be targeted. We need to know who is carrying out these crimes. We need more protection as citizens of this country,” Prince Kassim Nabikinge said.

Nabikinge also dismissed claims that the Kibuli Mosque was not among gazette places to conduct Muslim marriages in the country.

He was on Sunday speaking during celebrations to mark the 116th anniversary of the return of Prince Nuhu Mbogo from exile. Mbogo is believed to be the grandfather of Muslims in Uganda because he led the campaign for the spread of Islam in the country.

“We attribute our success as Muslims in this country to Prince Nuhu Mbogo, who led the fi ght for us to be recognized in the country,” Zubairi Kayongo, the Supreme Mufti, said. Obeid Kamulegeya, the head of sheikhs in the country, said: “It is only from Allah that we seek our refuge. He gives and he takes. He has the powers to intervene in every situation.’’

He urged highranking Muslims in the Government to use their positions to advocate for Muslim demands if they are to fight marginalisation. He cited incidences where Muslims have been sidelined in Cabinet appointments.

Moses Kigongo, the National Resistance Movement vicechairperson, advised Muslims to be patient as the Government fi nds solutions to their problems.