Luwero District Kadhi, Sheikh Ramadhan Mulindwa Nsanja, has urged Muslims in the district to pursue legal avenues through established institutions rather than resort to violence in the event of dissatisfaction with the outcome of the January 15, 2026 General Elections.
Addressing Muslim leaders, including sheikhs and imams, at the Luwero Muslim District Headquarters in Kasana, Luwero Town Council, Sheikh Mulindwa emphasized that Islam upholds peace, patience, and respect for the rule of law, even during moments of political disagreement.
Ugandans are expected to go to the polls on January 15 to elect the President and Members of Parliament. However, Sheikh Mulindwa said there are growing concerns that some individuals are contemplating protests should election results not favor their preferred candidates.
He encouraged Muslims to actively participate in the electoral process by voting peacefully and in strict accordance with electoral guidelines. Sheikh Mulindwa advised voters to cast their ballots early, observe the required distance from polling stations, and disperse calmly once voting and tallying processes are concluded.
The Kadhi further called on the faithful to exercise wisdom when choosing leaders and to accept election outcomes with maturity and restraint. Where grievances arise, he stressed that lawful channels, particularly the courts, remain the appropriate and legitimate means of seeking redress.
Sheikh Mulindwa strongly cautioned against acts of violence, including demonstrations that involve the destruction of property, noting that such actions undermine national stability and contradict Islamic teachings on peace and coexistence.
He urged those dissatisfied with the results to either pursue justice through legal means or wait for the next electoral cycle. He concluded by appealing to Muslims to pray for peace before, during, and after the elections, and to return home peacefully following the declaration of results, emphasizing that violence is never a solution to political disputes.
Sheikh Mulindwa’s remarks come amid ongoing controversy surrounding post-polling guidelines. The Electoral Commission of Uganda has discouraged crowding at polling stations after voting, while opposition parties are urging voters to remain at polling stations, arguing that their presence helps protect the vote.
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