Muslim leaders call for peaceful elections
Jul 31, 2020
Mubajje's appeal comes as the political space is heating with political parties and groups involved in arrangements to field candidates in the elections.
EID|ELECTIONS
The Muslim leaders have called for peaceful 2021 elections.
"Avoid steering un necessary tension during the election period," the Mufti of Uganda Shekh Shaban Mubajje urged politicians across the political divide.
This was contained in his message to the faithful which was delivered by the first Deputy Mufti Sheikh Abdullah Ssemambo during Idi prayers at Gaddafi National Mosque at Old Kampala.
The prayers were attended by about 20 people mainly from the leadership of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council.
The rest of the Muslims followed the televised proceedings from their homes in adherence to the government guidelines on the fight against coronavirus.
Mubajje's appeal comes as the political space is heating with political parties and groups involved in arrangements to field candidates in the elections.
The Electoral Commission (EC) recently decided that Presidential and Parliamentary elections will be held between January 10 to February 8, 2021.
However, all the campaigns will be held digitally or what is referred to as a scientific election.
According to the EC chairman, Justice Simon Byabakama, this was done in consultations with experts from the health ministry.
The Mufti called on the contestants in the vital polls to remain focused and shun blackmail.
"This will promote peace and harmony during campaigns and after the elections," he said.
Mubajje who is currently on official leave appreciated the government efforts in the fight against Covid-19 pandemic.
"I want to commend President Yoweri Museveni and his government for ably managing the pandemic and saving the life of Ugandans." He said.
He added; "During this period, people should continue to cry onto God to take a way coronavirus."
Relatedly the chairperson of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC), Sheikh Abdul Kadir Idi Balonde in his message to the Muslims also called for peaceful elections.
"I call on Ugandans to keep peace during this political period. Do not abuse one another because of different political affiliations," Balonde said.
Balonde appealed on the Muslim leaders to stop unnecessary wrangles which have also resulted into the shedding of innocent blood.
He used the occasion to call on the leaders of Syria, Egypt, United Arab Emirates and Israel to promote peace and stability in the Middle East which is conflict-ridden.