BY DIRAMAKINI
THE Council of Islamic Scholars of the National Muslim Council of Tanzania (BAKWATA) has suspended three Regional Sheikhs over what it described as conduct inconsistent with the Council's leadership principles.
Sheikh Walid Alhad Kawambwa.
The decision was reached during an emergency meeting of the Council of Islamic Scholars held on July 14, 2026 and chaired by the Acting Mufti and Deputy Chief Kadhi of Tanzania, Sheikh Ally Khamisi Ngeruko.
According to a statement issued by the Secretary of the Council of Islamic Scholars, Sheikh Hassan Said Chizenga, the suspended leaders are Sheikh Walid Alhad Kawambwa, Regional Sheikh for Dar es Salaam; Sheikh Issa Nassor Issa, Regional Sheikh for Singida; and Sheikh Hassan Kiburwa, Regional Sheikh for Kigoma.
The statement said the suspensions took effect immediately on July 14, 2026, following the Council's resolution.
Meanwhile, the Mufti and Chief Sheikh of Tanzania, Sheikh Dr. Abubakar Zubeir Mbwana, has appointed acting leaders to oversee the three regional offices pending further decisions by the relevant authorities.
Under the new appointments, Sheikh Abasi Ramadhani Abasi will serve as Acting Regional Sheikh for Dar es Salaam, Sheikh Issa Ramadhani Simba has been appointed Acting Regional Sheikh for Singida, while Sheikh Uwesu Mohamed Kiumbe will serve as Acting Regional Sheikh for Kigoma.
BAKWATA said the acting leaders will ensure continuity in administrative and religious affairs within their respective regions while the matter is being addressed.
The Council has also directed the Office of the Secretary General to oversee the handover process to ensure a smooth and timely transition of leadership in the affected regional offices.
However, the statement did not disclose specific details of the alleged conduct that led to the suspensions, stating only that the decision was based on actions deemed to be inconsistent with the Council's leadership principles.
The move underscores BAKWATA's commitment to upholding leadership standards, accountability, and institutional discipline while ensuring uninterrupted delivery of its religious and administrative responsibilities across the country.