Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda, has called on the Muslim community to demand accountability from the Uganda Muslim Education Association (UMEA).
During a press conference on November 6, 2024, at the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) headquarters, Mubaje accused the management of UMEA of squandering funds from schools registered under its banner without providing any support in return.
He highlighted that many schools are struggling and suffering due to this mismanagement, while UMEA caretakers continue to receive financial benefits without delivering services.
Mubaje pointed out that the original UMEA was dissolved in 1964, and what exists now is a new entity called UMEA Ltd., registered by individuals including Prince Kasimu Nakibinge Kakungulu and Haji Abubakhari Kakembo.
He emphasized that this new organization is privately owned and does not represent the interests of the broader Muslim community.
He further explained that the UMSC has an education department, and if schools continue to operate under the UMEA name, it creates a disconnect.
UMSC is hesitant to engage with these institutions if they do not adhere to its syllabus or guidelines.
This lack of affiliation could lead to complications regarding accountability for what is being taught in these schools.
Mubaje also drew parallels with mosques outside UMSC’s jurisdiction, stating that activities conducted there remain unmonitored and Imams not elected by UMSC lack accountability.
In cases of security issues, UMSC would be unable to provide answers to authorities. He reiterated that UMSC’s education department is prepared to register all Muslim schools across Uganda, ensuring proper governance and oversight.
He clarified that the current UMEA Ltd. does not own educational institutions and urged the community to recognize the historical context surrounding UMEA’s dissolution in 1964.
The ongoing discussions about accountability within Muslim educational institutions are crucial for restoring trust and ensuring effective governance in Uganda’s Muslim community.
