The Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje, has urged the government to ban TikTok, arguing that many people misuse the platform to stir up trouble among Ugandans.
Speaking at Old Kampala mosque during Idd-ul-Fitr prayers on Sunday, March 30, 2025, Sheikh Mubajje expressed concerns that TikTok is being used by individuals who waste time, seek attention, and attack others. He warned that the platform could eventually incite violence.
“TikTok has become a problem, and I believe it is only a matter of time before it leads to violence. When Facebook was a concern, the Ugandan government shut it down, but I think TikTok is even worse. It appears to be unregulated,” Sheikh Mubajje stated.
He further noted, “I recently visited a country where TikTok does not exist, and I thought to myself, this is great because TikTok is mainly for idlers, those looking for attention, and people who have nothing meaningful to say. I urge the government to consider banning it, as it serves no purpose.”
According to the Uganda Communication Commission (UCC), approximately 5.5 million Ugandans use TikTok.
Sheikh Mubajje also criticized the way some users, including Muslim sheikhs, misuse the platform. He accused them of spreading misinformation and creating divisions within the Muslim community.
“I would be pleased if TikTok were banned because it is pointless. Even some Sheikhs who use it are misleading people, engaging in verbal abuse, and discussing trivial matters that sow discord among Muslims,” he said.
Sheikh Mubajje’s leadership has been a source of controversy among some Muslims. His five-year term extension as Mufti has sparked disagreements, with some individuals challenging the decision in court.
Following reports that he should have retired on March 12, 2025, at the age of 70, as per the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) regulations, many TikTok users criticized him. However, on March 13, 2025, UMSC confirmed that Sheikh Mubajje, now 70, and his deputy, Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa, 72, had received a five-year extension in office. Nonetheless, some Muslims oppose the extension, arguing that it violates the established rules.
