In a decisive move, President Museveni has penned a letter to Chief Justice Alphonse Owiny Dollo, expressing his deep concern over the impending sale of Muslim properties in Uganda. The letter, dated December 7, 2023, was prompted by revelations that among the properties at risk is the National Mosque at Old Kampala.
Museveni, in his letter, questioned the rationale behind attaching places of worship for debts incurred by officials of the faith, emphasizing the need for legal safeguards to protect institutions of worship. Expressing his astonishment, he urged the Chief Justice to review the matter and address the alleged misconduct and collusion highlighted by Mufti Mubajje.
The ongoing dispute revolves around Uganda Muslim Supreme Council property facing the possibility of being sold off to settle a debt of shs18 billion. The conflict was initiated when Justus Kyabahwa took the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council to court, seeking compensation. The court ruled in favor of Kyabahwa, granting him the requested amount and allowing him to attach Muslim properties, including the Old Kampala Mosque.
However, a ray of hope emerged on Thursday when a panel of three justices from the Court of Appeal intervened, putting a temporary halt to any imminent sale of Muslim properties until the main appeal is thoroughly examined and resolved.
President Museveni's intervention underscores the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the need to preserve the sanctity of places of worship and urging a thorough review of the legal proceedings. The unfolding developments will undoubtedly be closely watched as the nation awaits a resolution to this complex and sensitive matter.
