Muslim women’s organizations have strongly condemned the recent mob justice directed at Hajat Zuura, whose 14-year-old daughter is said to have been raped by her stepfather.

The stepfather, identified as Hajji Ali, was recently charged with aggravated defilement before remanding him to prison till November 13, 2024.

The Islamic Women’s Initiative for Justice, Law, and Peace (IWILAP) during a press conference on Monday, November 4, 2024, at their office in Kira, Bulindo, highly condemned the act calling for justice and police intervention.

According to IWILAP spokesperson Aisha Mastullah, there is an urgent need to protect the victim and her family and also called for accountability while dealing with sensitive cases around sexual violence.

She further expressed concern over the increasing violence faced by Hajat Zuura, who was subjected to public harassment and intimidation in her quest for justice.

“These acts of mob justice are unacceptable and must end immediately, especially while the case is still pending in court,” Mastullah said.

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Mastullah noted that those behind this mob violence are reportedly individuals in positions of power, which makes it even more complicated; therefore, the Uganda Police should provide enough security for Hajat Zuura, emphasizing that public officials should be creating a safe and respectful space for anyone who comes forward about defilement cases.

“We demand accountability for those responsible for publicly parading and interrogating Hajat Zuura. Such actions not only jeopardize her safety but also deter other victims from coming forward,” she said.

Zuurah recently accused her husband and stepfather to her daughter, Hajji Ali Mwizera, of assaulting her daughter; however, in a dramatic turn, Hajji Ali accused her of trying to him with the view of stealing his property.