religion 6 September 2026 Nile Post

UMSC Warns Clerics on Responsible Social Media Use for Religious Content

The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) has issued a stern warning to Muslim clerics, urging them to exercise caution and responsibility when disseminating religious messages on social media platforms. The council emphasizes that miscontextualized content can negatively impact public perception of Islam. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/369368/umsc-warns-muslim-clerics-against-misusing-social-media

The Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) has cautioned Muslim clerics against the improper use of religious knowledge and social media, highlighting the potential for misinterpretation and negative audience perception.

Sheikh Juma Bakhit Cucu, the UMSC Secretary for Education, noted that while platforms like TikTok and WhatsApp have expanded the reach of Islamic teachings, they also present avenues for misuse by some preachers.

“Even if the hadith you are quoting is Sahih—authentic—but what is the circumstance that you are relating to that hadith?” Sheikh Cucu questioned, stressing the importance of context. He urged Islamic scholars and preachers to employ wisdom when conveying sensitive religious messages, as the method of delivery significantly influences how Islam is perceived.

“Even if you are telling somebody something touchy, say it properly, say it wisely,” he advised. Sheikh Cucu made these remarks during a Friday sermon at Makerere University Business School on September 4, 2026.

Beyond social media, Sheikh Cucu also encouraged Muslims to deepen their connection with Allah through knowledge, worship, prayer, and continuous repentance. He stated that religious knowledge should lead to practical application, lamenting that “Many follow what they don’t know and many know what they don’t follow.”

He emphasized that acquiring knowledge is foundational for strengthening one’s relationship with Allah and cautioned against excessive attachment to worldly possessions. Sheikh Cucu also advised believers to constantly seek Allah’s guidance, noting that a strong start in life does not guarantee a positive end.

Prayer, or Ibadah, was described as an expression of love and gratitude towards Allah, an opportunity to seek forgiveness, guidance, lawful provision, and assistance in interacting responsibly with others. He reminded the congregation that worldly life is part of a larger spiritual journey, necessitating a balance between meeting material needs and preparing for the hereafter.

Source: Nile Post