SA muslims reject violence in the name of Islam
'Islamic State, Boko Haram act in a way that is contrary to Islamic values'
Muslims in South Africa condemned the violence of organisations that claim to represent them in Africa and the Middle East.
Faithworks, a network of South African Muslims released a statement on Tuesday calling all muslims to attend an interfaith vigil from 3.30pm on Sunday 14 September at the Kidney Amphitheatre at Constitution Hill, 11 Kotze Street in Braamfontein.
The statement reads “Join us at this interfaith vigil for people who have lost their lives, homes and dignity through the actions of groups like the “Islamic State” in Iraq and Boko Haram in Nigeria also, to stand in solidarity with communities suffering as a result of atrocities committed by these groups.
“These are organisations that claim to represent Islam, but who act in a way that is contrary to Islamic values and teachings. We want to speak out against the hijacking and misrepresentation of Islam’s teachings.
“We, as Muslims, stand for justice; against violence and terrorism perpetrated in the name of our religion.”
Speakers on the day include Foundation for Human Rights executive director Yasmin Sooka, political analyst Steven Friedman and Afro-Middle East Centre director Na’eem Jeenah (see attached poster). Leaders representing different religions will attend.
Organisations that have recently condemned the atrocities committed by “Islamic State” include the Jamiatul Ulama of South Africa (Council of Muslim Theologians), the Muslim Judicial Council and the Muslim Youth Movement.
Individuals that have supported our campaign include Ahmed Kathrada, Enver Surty, Zak Yacoob and Iraqi ambassador to SA Dr Hisham Al-Alawi.
To view their open letter of condemnation, click here
