IGANGA DISTRICT, UGANDA: Muslim leaders in Iganga have called for peace and a ceasefire in the ongoing Iran conflict, using Eid ul-Fitr prayers to urge unity, compassion, and responsible conduct among believers.
The Iganga District Kadhi, Sheikh Sinan Muhammad Muwanika, made the appeal during Eid prayers held on Friday, March 20, at Iganga Municipal Council Primary School, where he warned that the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel continues to claim lives and destabilise communities.
Sheikh Muwanika urged countries involved in the conflict to prioritise dialogue and peace agreements to protect innocent civilians.
“Islam is a religion of peace, and we do not emphasise misunderstandings. Therefore, we call upon our brothers and sisters to agree at some point and to cease fire. This war is majorly affecting the grassroots people in many ways,” he said.
He expressed concern that the prolonged conflict could have far-reaching economic consequences, including indirect effects on countries like Uganda that rely on imports from affected regions.
“This war is affecting people in Arab countries majorly, but, unfortunately, Muslims are revenging on Muslims. We ask for peace in those countries, but still this war will affect us, given that we import some things from them,” Sheikh Muwanika added.
He also commended the Mufti of Uganda for promoting unity among Muslims and praised the government for maintaining peace before, during, and after the recent elections.
Eid prayers were led by Sheikh Bruhan Abdulkadir Byekwaso, who called on Muslims to sustain the spirit of generosity, compassion, and discipline cultivated during the holy month of Ramadan.
“The Ramadan month is over, and I call upon you not to be mean but maintain the compassionate hearts which you have been exhibiting during the holy season. We need to behave well and avoid domestic violence at home,” Sheikh Byekwaso said.
He strongly condemned domestic violence and urged men to treat their spouses with respect, noting that stable families are the foundation of a peaceful society.
Sheikh Byekwaso also raised concern over youth behaviour, particularly excessive engagement in betting and European football at the expense of spiritual obligations and productivity.
“How can your child fail to have evening prayers in Ramadan because of European football matches? This is terrible. I urge parents to educate children on the goodness of Allah. Youths are not fearing Allah, and we ask them to maintain discipline and respect for their parents,” he said.
He further commended men who upheld good conduct during Ramadan and encouraged them to sustain those values beyond the fasting period.
The prayers were attended by several local leaders, including Iganga Municipality MP-elect Abed Nasser Mudiobole, Mayor-elect Kongola Nasser, and Woman MP-elect Mariam Seif.
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