During Eid Al-Adha prayers at Al-Madina Stadium in Kabale Municipality, Muslim leaders delivered a powerful message: Islam is not terrorism. They called for Ugandans and security agencies to stop linking Muslims with terrorism, urging the public to understand that terrorism does not represent Islam in any form.
Mislabeling Muslims as Terrorists
Sheikh Kabu Lule, the Kabale District Kadhi, addressed the issue directly. He emphasized that Islam is not terrorism, noting that the religion teaches peace and condemns violence. Lule criticized the tendency of associating Muslims with terrorism whenever incidents occur, calling it unjust and harmful.
He urged authorities to treat any Muslim accused of terrorism as an individual Ugandan, not as a representative of the entire faith. “If a Muslim commits any act of terrorism, that Muslim should be treated as an individual,” he stated. “Do not link the whole religion to the actions of one person.”
Calls for Understanding and Equal Treatment
Sheikh Kasiimu Kamugisha, a member of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council, echoed similar sentiments. He highlighted the consequences of labeling Muslims as terrorists, which has led to discrimination and developmental setbacks in Uganda.
He called for opportunities for Muslims to express themselves freely without being wrongly judged. “We should separate terrorism from Islam,” he urged. “Let Muslims contribute to Uganda’s development without fear.”
The leaders noted that such stigmatization affects not just individual lives but also community development, especially when Muslims are alienated in schools, workplaces, and public discourse.
A Religion of Peace
Islam, by its teachings, promotes peace, unity, and respect for human life. The leaders reminded the public that many who misuse the faith for violent purposes do so against the principles of Islam. “We are peaceful people,” Sheikh Lule affirmed, reinforcing that stereotypes are not only false but also dangerous.
Internal Corruption: Another National Concern
The Eid gathering also tackled another pressing issue: corruption in Uganda. Hajji Issa Tindyebwa, Chairperson of the Kabale Muslim Council, condemned widespread corruption and job bribery, where positions are sold to the highest bidder.
He warned that such practices deny Ugandans capable leaders and destroy public trust. “Communities will never get better leadership unless we end this corruption,” he said.
Political Support for Anti-Corruption Efforts
Kabale Woman MP Catherine Ndamira also called for united action against corruption. She encouraged citizens to report embezzlement and other forms of misuse of public funds.
“Corruption is between you and me,” she said. “Let’s use this Eid to reflect and commit to honesty. Love and unity will help us defeat corruption.”
Promoting Peace and Mutual Respect
The Kabale Muslim leaders’ sermon sends a clear message: Islam is not terrorism, and Muslims should not suffer because of the misdeeds of a few. Instead, they encouraged everyone to promote peace, coexistence, and mutual respect.
As Uganda heads into more politically and socially challenging times, religious leaders remain vital voices for unity and justice. Their message reminds us all to judge fairly, act justly, and avoid spreading harmful narratives that divide rather than unite.