Mubajje Granted Controversial Five-Year Extension
The College of Eminent Sheikhs (Majlis Al-Ulama) in Uganda has controversially extended the tenure of Mufti Sheikh Shaban Mubajje for five more years despite concerns regarding the legality of the decision.
Mubajje who has led the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) for 24 years was expected to retire upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70 as mandated by the 1986 UMSC constitution. However, UMSC chairperson Prof. Muhammadi Lubega Kisambira stated that legal advisors found no constitutional impediments to Mubajje seeking another term under the new 2022 UMSC constitution.
“With the help of UMSC lawyer Dr. Makmot Adam Kibwanga, they found no constitutional contradiction regarding Dr. Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje,” said Kisambira. He emphasized that the decision was aimed at ensuring continuity and stability within UMSC leadership.
In addition to Mubajje’s appointment, Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa has been named the First Deputy Mufti. Waiswa, a close associate of Mubajje for two decades will join him in leadership under the new terms. However, this move has drawn criticism from some within the Muslim community who argue it violates the constitution.
Legal challenges have emerged with a judicial review application filed at the Civil Division of the High Court in Kampala questioning Mubajje’s eligibility for another term. Justice Emmanuel Baguma has set a hearing for March 19 warning that any endorsement of Mubajje during the pending case could nullify the decision.
Despite the backlash, Kisambira asserted that the UMSC would continue its operations uninterrupted. “We as UMSC did not go to court and are free to proceed with our business as usual. There is no injunction or order preventing any operations at UMSC,” he said.
City lawyer Ali Kankaka, involved in drafting the new UMSC constitution, countered the extension’s validity, stating, “The Majlis Al Ulama has the power to vet and elect a Mufti only when the position is vacant, and the general assembly is merely informed for noting.” The controversy surrounding Mubajje’s extension continues to unfold as the legal proceedings advance.
