Mombasa Mosque Committee Accuses Muslim Association of Mismanagement, Calls for Government Probe

The Interim Management Committee of Sakina Jamia Mosque in Majengo has publicly accused the Muslim Association of Mombasa (MAM) of prolonged neglect, financial mismanagement, and lack of transparency in running the mosque's affairs.

Speaking to the media on Friday, committee spokesperson Mohammed Hadhadhi claimed the association has squandered approximately KSh 54 million in mosque resources while failing to maintain facilities or provide basic services to worshippers.

“The situation is alarming and unacceptable,” Hadhadhi said. “The mosque owns several properties, yet congregants cannot access essential upkeep or services. There is complete absence of transparency and accountability.”

According to the committee, the mosque was transferred to MAM's control nearly 30 years ago by community leaders, but governance has since declined sharply. Allegations include exclusion of community segments from membership, refusal to engage in dialogue over disputes, and failure to produce financial records.

Committee members further reported harassment of mosque tenants through arbitrary rent hikes and eviction threats, as well as intimidation of worshippers attempting to access the premises. They argue these actions violate constitutional rights to freedom of worship and undermine community harmony.

The Interim Management Committee was established by congregants in January 2026 to protect the mosque, safeguard worshippers and tenants, and push for inclusive, lawful administration.

The group has written formal complaints to multiple authorities, including the Mombasa County Governor, local Members of Parliament, the County Commissioner, the Registrar of Societies, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). They are urging both national and county governments to launch an immediate investigation into the alleged misuse of funds and properties, and to facilitate the restoration of proper governance.

“Our aim is not confrontation but restoration,” Hadhadhi stressed. “We seek dignity, transparency, and effective management of Sakina Jamia Mosque for the benefit of current worshippers and generations to come.”

The Muslim Association of Mombasa has not yet issued a public response to the allegations. Efforts to reach MAM officials for comment were ongoing at the time of publication.

This dispute highlights ongoing tensions over the administration of religious institutions and community assets in Mombasa, where calls for accountability in mosque management have surfaced periodically.

The story remains developing as authorities consider the committee's requests.