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Chief Mufti of Tanzania
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Sheikh Abubakar Zubeir bin Ally is the Chief Mufti of Tanzania and the head of the National Muslim Council of Tanzania (BAKWATA). Appointed to the highest Islamic office in the country in 2015, Sheikh Zubeir leads a vast demographic, as Muslims constitute a massive percentage of the Tanzanian population, particularly along the coast and in Zanzibar. Sheikh Zubeir has been a powerful force for modernization within BAKWATA, heavily promoting secular education alongside Islamic studies, and forging strong ties with international Islamic bodies in Morocco, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. He is celebrated for his moderate stance and his unwavering commitment to interfaith dialogue, regularly appearing alongside Christian bishops to condemn extremism and promote national cohesion. Politically, he is deeply embedded in the state apparatus, frequently officiating state functions and offering prayers that align the religious establishment with the government's development agenda.
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Elected Chief Mufti of Tanzania and head of BAKWATA (2015–Present), overseeing Islamic affairs for millions of Tanzanians
Spearheaded the construction of the massive, ultra-modern BAKWATA headquarters and the King Mohammed VI Mosque in Dar es Salaam, funded by the King of Morocco
Championed a national de-radicalization campaign, successfully neutralizing extremist ideologies in coastal regions like Pwani, Mtwara, and Tanga
Faced long-standing structural criticism from breakaway Islamic groups who view BAKWATA not as an authentic religious body, but as a political proxy created by the Tanzanian state (CCM) to control the Muslim populace
Criticized by human rights defenders during the 2025 election cycle for urging Muslims to accept controversial election results and avoid protests, effectively offering religious cover to democratic backsliding
Fostered unprecedented interfaith unity, establishing joint peace committees with Christian leaders