IDI AMIN’S LEGACY, THE UNSHAKABLE FOUNDATION OF MUSLIM UNITY IN UGANDA – MUBAJE

By Aggrey Baba

A tree is judged by its fruit, and Uganda’s Muslim community stands as a testament to the seeds of unity sown decades ago. During the golden jubilee celebrations of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) yesterday, history reminded us of a man who wore many hats, former President Idi Amin, whose hand in fostering Muslim unity still echoes through time.

Idi Amin Dada, was a man of action, whose bold decisions shaped the destiny of Uganda’s Muslim community. When others hesitated, he gave land that became the foundation for the iconic Old Kampala Mosque, a sanctuary of worship and a symbol of togetherness. His gesture was not merely an act of generosity but a call to unite under one roof, one voice, and one purpose.

“During the 1970s, Muslims began to unite under one umbrella,” recounted the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, as he reflected on the monumental steps taken during Amin’s era. Amin’s vision did not end with the land but also flourished through partnerships with global allies like Libya’s late leader Muammar Gaddafi, whose financial support breathed life into the construction of the mosque.

The celebration, hosted at Old Kampala Secondary School, brought together government officials, religious leaders, and thousands of Muslim faithful. It was a time to honor 52 years of unity, progress, and blessings. Gratitude filled the air, not just for Amin’s pivotal role but also for the continued support from President Museveni, whose leadership has guided constitutional reforms and strengthened the council.

As the Mufti spoke, he painted a picture of three pillars of Idi Amin, Muammar Gaddafi, and Yoweri Museveni, who, across different decades, fortified the Muslim community. Each contributed a lot. Amin, with his bold beginnings, Gaddafi, with his resources, and Museveni, with his enduring support.

The golden jubilee was not just a celebration of years passed but a reminder of the proverb, [If you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, go together]. For Uganda’s Muslims, the road to unity was paved by the wisdom, sacrifice, and strength of those who came before, a legacy they now carry forward with pride.

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