The Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, has called for stronger Muslim representation in government.
He said the current Cabinet structure does not reflect the community’s contribution to national development and support for the ruling NRM government.
His remarks follow President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s proposed 2026–2031 Cabinet lineup, which Mubaje said falls short of expectations among a community he described as a long-standing supporter of the ruling government.
He said his review of the ministerial list showed limited Muslim representation despite the community’s political support and role in national development.
Mubaje made the comments during Eid prayers, where he also congratulated Museveni on his re-election and commended Uganda’s Muslim community for maintaining unity and calm during the election period.
Speaking on behalf of the community, he said the appointments do not match their numerical strength or historical presence in national politics, adding that “a small slice is not enough” and invoking Oliver Twist, he said Muslims need more slots.
Muslims account for about 14 percent of Uganda’s population, forming the largest religious minority in a country where Christians make up about 82 percent.
However, for decades, the community has consistently raised concerns about systemic under-representation not only in political appointments but also across the wider public service, civil service, education sector, security organs, and other spheres.
In the newly nominated Cabinet, several Muslim figures feature, including Aisia Ssekindi, Lukia Nakadama, Haruna Kasolo, Minsa Kabanda, Amina Mukalazi, Siraji Musa Ali, and Huda Abason Oleru. Among them is Lukia Nakadama, who serves as Third Deputy Prime Minister.
Despite these appointments, Mubaje said the overall number remains inadequate, urging the leadership to widen inclusion as the new government takes shape.
He also called on Muslim leaders appointed to the Cabinet to promote unity within the community and avoid divisions as they execute their roles in government.
His statement adds immediate pressure on the incoming administration over questions of religious balance and representation at a moment when Cabinet composition is under national scrutiny.
Meanwhile in Mbarara, Sheikh Umar Ssebalamu has asked Muslims to seek heavenly blessings from God through feeding the orphans and the disadvantaged and making sacrifices.
Speaking during Eid prayers at Iqra Mosque in Mbarara City, Ssebalamu asked the believers to copy what other Muslims from other areas do to lift their faith.
He said that Eid is not all about dressing in the most expensive clothes for your family, but also about providing a meal for the rest of the neighbors.
He narrated that a person who can sacrifice but doesn’t is making a mistake, noting that they’re not supposed to be in the mosque.
Abdul Karim Katamba, the regional Khadi, asked political leaders to be patriotic, serving their country, but also those they serve to love their country.
He also asked the Muslim believers to love one another and provide those who are in need with whatever they can.
THIS IS JUST A DROP IN THE OCEAN, MUFTI MUBAJE ON MUSLIMS REPRESENTATION IN CABINET
