The District Kadhi of Mukono, Sheikh Abass Muhammad Zubairi Ssenkuba Ssonko, has strongly condemned rampant corruption in the country, describing it as “eating bribes,” and urged the government to extend its anti-corruption drive to all institutions, including the security organs, particularly the Police.
Sheikh Ssenkuba Ssonko made the remarks while addressing thousands of Muslims who gathered for Eid al-Fitr (IDD) prayers at Masjid Atique, the main mosque located in the heart of Mukono town, on Wednesday morning. Worshippers began arriving at the mosque as early as 8am.
In a powerful sermon, the District Kadhi thanked President Yoweri Museveni for his firm public stance against corruption but warned that the fight must be thorough and impartial.
“Muslims cannot stand behind corruption,” Sheikh Ssenkuba Ssonko declared. “We urge everyone to report those involved so that they can be arrested. The government should not stop at arresting only the big fish. The net must also be cast within the security agencies, especially the Police.”
The Kadhi expressed sympathy with public servants who have been arrested while working in their offices, but firmly condemned the growing tendency by some Ugandans to insult and abuse those arrested.
“This is wrong. It hurts the families left behind and only creates more hatred in society,” he said.
Sheikh Ssenkuba Ssonko also voiced deep concern over the alleged grabbing of Islamic land, specifically citing plots at Kawomya and Kazinga that were donated by an Indian benefactor.
The Eid prayers at Masjid Atique were led by Sheikh Sadam Ayub, who delivered a spiritually enriching message centered on the virtue of charity and generosity.
“Giving is the source of all good things, including immense wealth, blessings, and development from Allah,” Sheikh Ayub told the congregation. He cited examples of formerly wealthy and prominent individuals in the country who lost their blessings after failing to reach out to the needy.
Dr. Daisy Nabatanzi Sarah Sonko, a former aspirant for Mukono Municipality Member of Parliament, echoed the anti-corruption message, arguing that the vice begins at the village level.
“Corruption starts from the villages where LC officials sell plots and land multiple times,” Dr. Sonko said. “These local leaders must also be held accountable. This malpractice has even led to murders in some areas. The fight against corruption must begin from the grassroots.”
At Masjid Salaam Kitega, another venue for Eid prayers in the district, Imam Abubakari Muhammad Kayiwa urged the newly appointed ministers to serve with integrity.
“Use your offices well and avoid corruption. Leaders must use public funds properly to move this country forward,” Imam Kayiwa emphasized.
Hassan Bulesa, the head of elections in the JEMA group, expressed disappointment that Muslims continue to be left behind in national appointments despite having many educated and qualified individuals.
He appealed directly to the President to address the matter and ensure greater inclusion of Muslims in government service.
The various leaders later addressed the Muslim faithful, reinforcing messages of unity, moral uprightness, and national development as the country celebrated the end of Ramadan.
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