Muslims Nationwide Pray for Peace as Uganda Heads to 2026 General Elections
By Kyeyune Ali
Muslims across Uganda on Friday turned to prayer, seeking divine protection, peace, and stability ahead of the forthcoming 2026 general elections, following a directive from the Mufti of Uganda, His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje.
Acting through the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) Department of Religious Affairs, the Mufti called upon all mosques countrywide to conduct special supplications after Friday Juma prayers, urging the faithful to beseech Almighty Allah to safeguard the nation during the sensitive electoral period expected in the coming weeks.
The main dedicational prayers were held at the National Mosque on Old Kampala Historic Hill and were led by the Second Deputy Mufti, His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Hafiz Muhammad Harunah Bukenya, on behalf of the Mufti, shortly after the Juma congregational prayers on Friday, January 9, 2025.
Earlier, worshippers were treated to a soul-stirring sermon delivered by Sheikh Hussein Ali Bulafu, a lecturer in Islamic Studies at the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU). In his message, Sheikh Bulafu emphasized the importance of peace, unity, and responsibility during the electoral process. He cautioned political aspirants against inciting violence or manipulating the electorate for personal gain, warning that such actions could plunge the country into instability. He also urged polling officials to conduct themselves with professionalism, integrity, and fairness.
During the special supplications, Sheikh Bukenya offered heartfelt prayers for the nation, invoking Allah’s attribute of peace.
“Oh Almighty Allah, among Your ninety-nine attributes is peace. Grant us peace and stability in our motherland Uganda. Grant us wisdom as we choose our national leaders. Lead us to those who will guide us in prosperity and protect us from those who will not benefit us. Keep us under Your divine protection at all times, Aamiin,” he prayed.
The prayers attracted several dignitaries, including the Mufti of Uganda, His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje; the UMSC Secretary General, Hon. Hajji Abbas Muluubya Ssekyanzi; his deputies; members of the UMSC executive; departmental heads; Prof. Dr. Badru Kiggundu, former Chairperson of the Uganda Electoral Commission; heads of international Muslim charitable organizations; and former Muslim leaders, among others.
The nationwide prayers underscored the Muslim community’s call for calm, unity, and divine guidance as Uganda prepares for a critical democratic exercise.