The Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Mubaje, has called upon Muslims in the country to make use of the money allocated for the Parish Development Model (PDM), assuring them that it aligns with the principles of Islam and is not considered a loan.
Speaking after the Eid al-Fitr prayers at the Gaddafi Mosque in Old Kampala, Mubaje stated that President Museveni had clarified that the funds provided are in the form of a donation, exempt from interest payments.
“After His Excellency, the President, explained that this money is not a loan, participating in the PDM is Halal (permissible). We permit you to borrow this money as it does not involve Riba (interest),” he affirmed.
Previously, Muslim leaders had advised the Muslim community against accepting the funds, expressing concerns that it might involve interest, which is prohibited in Islam.
The Mufti expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for enabling Muslims worldwide to successfully complete the Holy Month of Ramadan. He also extended his appreciation to various embassies, international charities, local non-profit organizations, individuals, and media houses for their contributions, including food donations to disadvantaged members of the community.
He also commended their efforts in raising awareness about religious obligations related to fasting.
The Mufti concluded with a special tribute to the President and the entire government for their support of the Muslim community.
Hadji Abbas Muluubya Ssekyanzi, the UMSC Secretary General, provided an overview of the current state of affairs at the UMSC, highlighting past achievements and future developmental plans aligned with the ten-year Strategic Developmental Plan.
He urged Muslim faithful to actively participate in the upcoming National Population & Housing Census exercise in 2024.
The Deputy Mufti, Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa, who served as the main preacher of the day, implored Muslim believers to continue striving for God-consciousness, intensify personal devotion, show compassion towards one another, respect community religious leaders, and, above all, strengthen unity among themselves.