religion 16 August 2026 Nile Post
Deputy Mufti: Young Muslims Must Honor Parents, Even Across Faiths
The Second Deputy Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Hafiz Muhammad Harunah Bukenya, has called upon young Muslims to show respect and honor towards their parents, regardless of religious differences. This message was delivered at a Nikah ceremony where newlyweds were also encouraged to raise children with strong moral values. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/363985/deputy-mufti-urges-young-muslims-to-honour-parents-and-build-strong-families
During a recent Nikah ceremony held at the Gaddafi National Mosque, Uganda’s Second Deputy Mufti, Sheikh Hafiz Muhammad Harunah Bukenya, emphasized the Islamic principle of respecting parents. Representing the Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, Bukenya urged young Muslims to maintain strong familial bonds and honor their parents, even if their parents adhere to different religious beliefs.
Sheikh Bukenya referenced the example of Prophet Muhammad’s relationship with his uncle, Abu Talib, highlighting that respect and family ties can be preserved despite differing faiths. He further stressed the importance of obedience, illustrating his point with an analogy about honoring parental requests regarding possessions.
The ceremony celebrated the marriage of Arshad Rukutana, son of former Attorney General Mwesigwa Rukutana, and Aryahimbisibwa Aisha Rukutana. Notably, the parents of the newlyweds, Mwesigwa Rukutana and Ahimbisibwa Elly, were commended for supporting their children’s decision to embrace Islam, despite having been raised in Christian families.
Mwesigwa Rukutana shared that his son Arshad is one of three children who have converted to Islam. He explained his acceptance of his children’s choices stems from a belief that different religious paths can lead to the same God, noting positive changes he has observed in his children’s character and lifestyle since their conversion.
The day’s preacher, Sheikh Hussein Ali Bulafu, also advised the couple to view marriage as a significant responsibility. He encouraged them to raise their future children with strong moral and religious values, emphasizing the family’s role in nurturing and preserving legacy for generations to come.