The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) has re-elected Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje as the Mufti of Uganda after his previous tenure expired upon reaching the age limit of 70, as stipulated by the 1986 UMSC Constitution. Mubaje, who has been at the helm of UMSC for 24 years, was initially expected to retire at 70. However, after legal consultations, the UMSC determined that his re-election was valid under the 2022 UMSC Constitution
Sheikh Mubaje’s re-election follows a detailed legal review by UMSC’s legal advisors. UMSC Chairperson, Prof. Muhammadi Lubega Kisambira, explained that after consultations with legal expert Dr. Makmot Adam Kibwanga, it was concluded that there were no constitutional barriers preventing Mubaje from seeking another term. According to Prof. Kisambira, the Majlis Al-Ulama (College of Sheikhs) confirmed there was no legal contradiction in considering Mubaje for re-election
On February 20, 2025, the Majlis Al-Ulama convened and unanimously endorsed Mubaje’s re-election, which was ratified by the UMSC Joint Session. The official announcement was made on March 13, 2025, by Dr. Sheikh Ziyadi Swaleh Lubanga, the Director of Sharia, during a media briefing held at UMSC’s headquarters in Old Kampala.
Although Sheikh Mubaje turned 70 on March 12, 2025, the 2022 UMSC Constitution allows leadership continuity through a transitional clause (Article 29[12]). This clause does not automatically extend tenures but allows for deliberation regarding leadership continuity by the Majlis Al-Ulama. The Majlis Al-Ulama, as per Article 5(2) of the amended Constitution, holds the authority to select the Mufti by consensus and secret deliberation.
Prof. Kisambira clarified that Mubaje’s re-election was not an extension of his previous term, but a fresh term in accordance with the new Constitution, governed by Article 5(9). Furthermore, both Mubaje and his deputy are not eligible for re-election after completing their new terms.
A legal challenge was filed to block Mubaje’s swearing-in (HCMC No. 0065 of 2025). The High Court dismissed both applications filed in relation to the case on March 12, 2025, allowing the UMSC to proceed with its transition. The main case will be heard on March 24, 2025, with respondents required to submit defense arguments by March 19, 2025
In addition to Sheikh Mubaje’s re-election, Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa was elected as the First Deputy Mufti of Uganda. In his acceptance speech, Mufti Mubaje expressed gratitude to the Majlis Al-Ulama for entrusting him with another term. He pledged to ensure a smooth leadership transition while reaffirming UMSC’s commitment to self-reliance and independence from foreign influence.
Sheikh Waiswa, the newly appointed First Deputy Mufti, vowed to strengthen the structures of the UMSC over the next five years.
