Cnews_ February 2008

Keeping you in contact with your community FEBRUARY 2008 - Safar 1429

19TH EDITION

Inside this issue

SHEIKH RAED SALAH FINALLY VISITS CAPE TOWN By Sanaa Petersen

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Have your say with the President PAGE 3

TOP 10 MUSLIM MATRICULANTS PAGE 4

NURJAHAN, CHAMPION OF FAMILY LAW

PAGE 7

CHIEF RABBI SAYS MOVE GAZANS TO A PALESTINE IN SINAI PAGE 8

ISLAMIC MEDIA AGENCY CC CK 2002/001313/23

Editor: Sanaa Petersen Religious Contributors: Dr Abdul Malik Printers: F.A. Print Lifestyle Editor: Mymoena Arnold Tape 466 Lansdowne Road, Lansdowne, 7780 Tel: 021 697 2294 • Fax: 021 697 2304 Email:[email protected] Website: www.islamicmedia.co.za

heikh Raed Salah, fondly known as Sheikh Al-Aqsa, because of his dedication to the preservation of Masjidul Aqsa and leader of the Islamic Movement in the Occupied Palestine 1948, previous Mayor of Umm el-Fahm, Head of the Supreme council for Da’wah and Relief Agency and Free Prisoners Agency, arrived in Cape Town on the 31 January. His visit illustrated the harsh realities of Masjidul Aqsa and the Palestinian people. Sheikh Raed was first scheduled to visit South Africa (SA) in 1998, but on the eve of his departure, he suffered a blotched assassination attempt on his life instead killing three of his supporters. A second attempt to visit SA, was retaliated by the Zionist incarcerating him. “It has taken over ten years (of good relations) to get the Sheikh to visit South Africa,” said Mln Ihsaan Hendricks, president of the Muslim Judicial Council and host. The Sheikh mainly addressed varied large Muslim audiences and pointed out that Masjidul Aqsa remains in danger of obliteration by the Zionist. He highlighted that in earlier years of occupation the Zionist denied excavating under Masjidul Aqsa and openly vowed to

build the Temple of Solomon on its ruins. Sheikh Raed reminded the Muslim audiences, that Masjidul Aqsa is the first Qibla, before Makkah, and the place where the sacred journey of Miraaj occurred. He said that the preservation of Masjidul Aqsa is the responsibility of all Muslims and not only Palestinians. “The United Nations (UN) was originally established for all the people of the world, they (UN) select who to help, but we don’t depend on the UN, we calling on the justice loving people of the world …we pray Allah (swt) will allow us to liberate Masjidul Aqsa,’ said Sheikh Raed. His brief visit rejuvenated the commitment of Muslims to liberate Masjidual Aqsa and Palestine from the illegal occupation of the Zionist. “Don’t think we asking for your charity and donations,” said Mln Ihsaan and urged Muslims to give Masjidul Aqsa its haq (right). The Cape Town leg of Sheikh Raed’s visit raised over R1million for the preservation and liberation of Masjidul Aqsa, with Mln Ihsaan Hendricks, Sheikh Ebrahim Gabriels, Sheikh Ihsaan Taliep pledging half of their salaries, until its liberation. The most heartwarming event,

Sheikh Raed Salah, Leader of the Islamic Movement in Jerusalem, arrived in Cape Town on 31 January 2008

which left the Sheikh and particular Sheikh Ebrahim Gabriels and Sheikh Erefaan Abrahams in tears was the mini Mahrajaan (rally) led by the Muslim youth. A tearful Sheikh Gabriels said, “This day is the proudest moment in my life.” The Darul Islam hall overflowed with young Muslims, from the independent Muslim schools, pledging their commitment to

the plight of Masjidul Aqsa and Palestine. The youth displayed their consciousness of the dire situation in Palestine with reference to Gaza and donated their lunch monies to Masjidul Aqsa. Picture gallery on page 12

POOR CONSUMERS MILKING’ THE POOR PAY FOR BREAD CONSUMER CARTELS PRICE-FIXING L I

ast month, the price of bread rose between 35c and 40c a loaf after the Competition Commission, confirmed it investigated price-fixing allegations against Pioneer Foods, Premier Foods and Tiger Brands and would ask the Competition Tribunal to fine Pioneer 10 percent of its R11,7-billion turnover of last year. The commission fined Tiger Brands an administrative penalty of R98,8-million last year. Premier Foods was granted immunity in return for its willingness to assist the investigations. Pioneer Foods, which owns Sasko and Duens bakeries, faces a fine of nearly R1,2billion for allegedly colluding

with rival bakeries to fix the price of bread. Pioneer Food denies it had done anything wrong. "We have sent them the names of the people in their company who attended meetings (with rival bakeries) where prices were fixed and we have provided details of the times when these meetings took place, but Pioneer still insists they have done nothing wrong,” said Thulani Kunene, acting deputy commissioner of the Competition Commission. Kunene said Pioneer would defend itself in an open hearing before the Competition Tribunal. The date of the hearing is not known.

n 2006 the Competition Commission referred a cartel case against Clover Industries, Clover SA, Parmalat, Ladismith Cheese, Woodlands Dairy, Lancewood, Nestle SA and Milkwood Dairy to the Competition Tribunal. Clover successfully applied at the time for leniency in relation to the accusation that it removed surplus milk from the market in order to keep prices high. A separate investigation was underway into a complaint by the Milk Producers' Organisation

who said supermarkets were taking part in price-fixing. In 2006, the commission said investigations since 2005 had found evidence of price fixing by milk producers and the manipulation of trading conditions for raw and retail milk. If found guilty, the milk companies could pay a penalty of up to ten percent of their annual turnover. And, then the price of Milk will increase!

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February 2008 - Safar 1429

NEWS BITES COMPILED BY SANAA PETERSEN

Yvonne Ridley sues Islamic TV bosses for sex and religious discrimination High-profile Muslim convert Yvonne Ridley was driven out of her presenter job on an Islamic TV station by "sexist" male bosses, a tribunal has heard. The former Fleet Street and Al-Jazeera reporter claimed a campaign of bullying and smears from Islam Channel chiefs was more stressful than when she was kidnapped by murderous Taliban fanatics in Afghanistan. Ms Ridley, a member of George Galloway's Respect party who styles herself 'Sister Yvonne' after very publicly converting to Islam, is suing the channel for sex and religious discrimination and constructive dismissal after her current affairs show was axed last year. She told a London tribunal relations with channel boss Mohammed Ali - who she claimed thought gay people should be "thrown off tall buildings" - got so bad he deliberately set out to trash her reputation by claiming he had seen her kissing and shaking hands with men. This, she said, was a serious slur for a devout Muslim woman that threatened to wreck both her career and her marriage.

British Jews condemns Israel’s oppression in Gaza A controversial coalition of prominent Jewish activists and academics has reignited controversy in the British Jewish community after taking out a paid advertisement in The Times this week calling for Israel to lift its economic blockade of the Gaza Strip and accusing the state of breaching international law. The statement appeared on the inside pages of the paper and was signed by 250 of the group’s members, entitled "End the siege of Gaza!" "Independent Jewish Voices" was formed a year ago and counts Nobel laureate Harold Pinter and actor Stephen Fry among its prominent signatories. The group was formed to provide an alternative to the Board of Deputies of British Jews - a cross communal Jewish organisation dating back to 1760 - who the IJV felt were inauthentically presenting themselves as the exclusive voice of Judaism in Britain.

ANC, SABC: divorce on the cards? The relationship between the ruling party and the public broadcaster has severely deteriorated in the past few

years amid accusations by Jacob Zuma supporters, which includes Zwelinzima Vavi-led Cosatu, Fikile Mbalula-led ANC Youth League (ANCYL) and Buti Manamela and his Young Communist League (YCL), that Mpofu and head of news Snuki Zikalala are biased against Msholozi. Some observers believe that the ‘marriage', which has lasted for more than a decade, might be heading for a ‘painful divorce'. Prof Harber said: “Things are topsy-turvy. Normally, political parties try and seduce the media and journalists play hard-to-get. “But here the SABC has stripped off its clothes and it is parading around naked, and the political party is begging them to get dressed.”

"the American right wing" and the media for creating this negative view to help win elections. Cole and Corey P. Saylor, legislative director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, discussed "Exploitation of Islamophobia in Elections," or how they said politicians are creating and exploiting new threatening terms to manipulate public opinion and get their votes.

AMERICAN CANDITATES USE ISLAM TO SECURE VOTES

Cole said President Bush and other Republicans, including some of the current presidential candidates, have used the term "Islamofacism." He compared it to an old political tactic. "They used to make them afraid of the Communists, now they are making them afraid Muslims," he said. Most people would find such a term applied to other religions to be "highly objectionable," Cole said. "Nobody talks about Christofascism, and they should not."

Juan R.I. Cole, a professor of history at the University of Michigan, said that immediately after Sept. 11, 30 percent of Americans had a negative view of Islam. But reports published in the Washington Post and USA Today in December found that 45 percent of Americans held negative views of Islam. He said such a change "is not natural." He blamed

While fascism is an old, hierarchical, elite system that is based on discrimination, he said, "Islam is none of these things." Noting that Rep. Tom Tancredo, who briefly ran for president, suggested blowing up the Islamic holy sites of Mecca and Medina if there were another attack on the U.S., Cole asked what the U.S. response would be if

Iranian leaders suggested blowing up the Vatican. He called ideas such as Tancredo's "crackpotism of the highest order." Both Cole and Saylor said Muslims in the U.S. today face similar problems of other minorities, including Japanese-Americans during World War II and African Americans.

NEW FLEA-MARKET FOR RONDEBOSCH Rashidah Mahatey starts local fleamarket on the corner of 4th Avenue and Mosman Road in Rondebosch East, “The site has huge potential and we want to turn it into a real family social destination by introducing a small park for children as well as hosting programs for ladies. We also want this flea market to be different from others by encouraging home industries. We know there are a lot of ladies who are looking for an outlet for their business and this will serve as an ideal opportunity for them,” said Mahatey. Those who wish to apply for a stall can contact me at 021-633 1833 or 082 7843844 or visit us at the flea market on a Saturday

SANZAF congratulates the 2007 Academic Achievers The South African National Zakaah Fund – WC (SANZAF) congratulates all matriculants on their academic achievement, with a special note to the learners from the Independent Muslim High Schools. Evidently, these learners have displayed remarkable achievements in their scholastic and Islamic curricular by achieving distinctions in the Arabic language. “We commend the Islamic Media Agency for the first ever awards ceremony in the Province,’ said Mogammad Amien Jacobs, Administrator. SANZAF believes that through education a community can be empowered to develop and grow into a progressive, sustainable and positive one. It recognizes that not

all achieving learners are financially able to further their studies. “SANZAF is committed to empowering the destitute and the needy person, who is intent on pursueing their education,” said Jacobs. Since, its inception in 1985 the SANZAF Education and Empowerment Project has grown dramatically into one of SANZAF’s prioritized projects. In the financial year ending August 2007 SANZAF Western Cape has awarded R1,652,635 in bursaries. The budget for the current academic year is R2mil. The chart reflects the type of institution, the number of students SANZAF assisted and the total amount sponsored.

SANZAF WESTERN CAPE Bursary Project 01 September 2006 - 31 August 2007 249,640 (50 assisted)

511,739 (117 assisted)

379,029,739 (105 assisted)

University

Private College

512,232 (133 assisted)

Technical College

Darul Uloom

For more information on the application process of a bursary please log onto www.sanzaf.org.za or telephone 0861 726923

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February 2008 - Safar 1429

Have your say with President Thabo Mbeki P resident Thabo Mbeki addressed the nation at the opening of Parliament on 8 February 2008, below is an edited version of his speech, highlighting the main points affecting South African citizens. The full address can be downloaded from our website – www.islamicmedia.co.za. We encourage our readers to respond to Mbeki’s speech which is addressed to them, citizens of South Africa. Please begin your response with Dear Mr President and email to [email protected], fax 021 697 2304 or sms 074 2274345, we will publish it and forward to him. State of the Nation Address (edited) They (SA citizens) are concerned about the national emergency into which the country has been thrown by the unexpected disruptions in the supply of electricity. Energy crises: Black-outs In essence the significant rise in electricity demand over the last two years has outstripped the new capacity we have brought on stream. The resultant tight supply situation makes the overall system vulnerable to any incident affecting the availability of energy. In this situation, we have to curtail the unplanned outages and the only way we can do this immediately is reduce demand and thus ensure a better reserve margin. Government will start implementing a campaign to ensure efficient lighting, solar water heating and geyser load management in households, including housing standards for all new houses and developments. We urge households that can afford to act immediately to consider implementing these energy-saving measures. On the supply side Eskom is working furiously to ensure the

introduction of co-generation projects as a matter of urgency. We are taking steps to enhance Eskom's maintenance capacity. We have emergency task teams dealing with the challenge of coal quality and supply with the coal mining industry and we are working to fast track the approval and construction of gas turbine projects. All these actions, taken together with the electricity saving measures, will improve certainty and raise the reserve margin.

tion and how they can help to address our current challenges.

to 50% of the population by the end of the year. Attached to this will be a manufacturing strategy for the development in South Africa of Set Top Boxes, which should be finalised by the middle of the year. Having noted that the tardiness with which government processes applications for investment in relation to issues such as land acquisition, infrastructure and environmental impact assessments can at times make or break investor decisions, set up a call centre through which prospective investors and government can track these processes.

Next week the Provincial Premiers will convene their fora with mayors to plan and implement the energy saving measures in all the municipalities across the country. They will be supported by Skills developtechnical teams ment from EDI Holdings, A deliberate Eskom and the focus will be on National Energy matters of skills Efficiency Agency. development. The Department Work to review of Provincial and the National Local Government President Thabo Mbeki at the opening of Parliament Human Resource will co-ordinate on 8 February 2008 - Sanaa Petersen Development this activity supStrategy will be ported by the line Departments Information and communi- completed this year, and the of Mineral and Energy and cation technology projects that the joint team Public Enterprises. We will this year complete the of government, labour, busilicensing and operationalisa- ness and academic instituI will convene a meeting of tion of Infraco. Already, money tions organised under the Joint the Joint Presidential Working has been allocated for Sentech Initiative on Priority Skills Groups to co-ordinate our to become a wireless internet Acquisition (JIPSA) will be overall actions. I will also wholesaler as well as finance intensified. shortly announce a team of its digitisation. Working with 'Energy Champions' consist- other governments on the con- In addition to this work we will ing of prominent and knowl- tinent and the private sector, in the coming period prioritise edgeable South Africans who we will complete the process to further interventions in the will assist government with the launch the undersea cables. further education and training energy efficiency campaign (FET) colleges, the sector eduand inform investors and com- At the same time, we aim to cation and training authorities munities on the actual situa- provide digital broadcasting (SETAs), resourcing schools in

the lowest three quintiles, freeing them from the responsibility to charge fees, and speeding up on-the-job training for professional graduates. Further, after correcting weaknesses in our Adult Basic Education programme, we shall this month launch the Kha Ri Gude mass literacy campaign. This will include the training of master trainers who will provide basic literacy classes to 300 000 adults and youth in 2008. Alleviating of Poverty Among the key proposed interventions are: expanding the public works programme, employment subsidies for direct job-creation for targeted groups, enhancing employment search capability, improving education and training, improving services and assets among poor communities, specific interventions in poor households, and ensuring effectiveness of institutions supporting women and other sectors. Among others, we will make an evaluation of the gender machinery so as to improve all aspects related to women empowerment. Parallel to this initiative is a special project to examine interventions required to deal with vulnerable children over the age of 14. We will require a National War Room for a War Against Poverty bringing together departments such as Social Development, Provincial and Local Government, Trade and Industry, Agriculture and Land Affairs, Public Works and Health as well as provincial and local administrations, which will work with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and business to identify the interventions continue on page 6

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February 2008 - Safar 1429

TOP 10 MATRICULANTS FROM MUSLIM HIGH SCHOOLS Alia Limbada

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habbeer Omar came in tops with 98% at the Annual Award Ceremony for Independent Muslim Schools and Kaamilah Fakier followed close behind with 97,5%. Shafeeqa Mohammad, with 96%, came in third followed by runners up Shakira Dawood, Ridwaan Osman, Zaakirah Moosa, Altaaf Harnekar, Ulfa Hendricks, Natheerah Galer and Ijaaz Mukaddam.

Omar came in at 208 in the province, out of a total 48 000 learners who wrote the Senior Certificate Examinations in 2007.

Agency (IMA). The Muslim high schools are Al-Azhar High (Athlone), Iqraa Academy (Old Belhar), Darul Islam High (Surrey Estate),

that we need to recognise our Muslim youth, not only for completing Matric but for excelling and wanting to be better and want better.

the media that they planned to study Medicine at the University of Stellenbosch. Ijaz Mukadam from the Al-azhar High said that he planned to specialise in cardiology, while Natheerah Galer said that the hardest subjects for her were mathematics and science. According to Shakira Dawood, who received 94% at the end of matric, her achievement came after hard work and a balanced lifestyle. “I had quite a balanced life last year. I would go to the movies with my family and also have my breaks. But when it came to exam times I would really put my head to it and wok hard.”

The above learners were named as the Top Ten Achievers of Distinction from the Independent Muslim schools in the Western Cape and were awarded on Wednesday at the first-ever Islamic award With the matceremony in the ric class of 2007 province. The MEC Cameron Dugmore awards the Top 10 Academic Achievers of the Independent Muslim High Schools in the Western Cape receiving the first awards, held at with the Islamic Media Agency : 2007 Awards of Academic Excellence Pic: MH Fryddie award for Muslim the International independent Peace University of South Dugmore highlighted the Madrasatul Rajaa (Strand), All these debates and talks schools, Petersen ensured Africa, were hosted by importance of such an inde- Islamia College (Lansdowne) throughout the year culmi- that the 2008 ceremony The Islamic Media Agency pendent event and was in the and Darul Arqam Institute nated in this award of excel- would be much bigger as (IMA) with their partners process of finding Omar a (M/Plain). lence,” said Petersen. the on-going aim to uplift the Muslim Judicial Council scholarship/bursary to sponlearners in the community – Youth Desk (MJC). sor his studies in Actuarial “The IMA has worked with A total of 326 learners from continues. The IMA sinScience at the University of various youth through its these independent schools cerely appreciates the comMinister Cameron Dugmore Cape Town in 2008. community newspaper and wrote the matric exam and a mitment of the community at the ceremony handed its partnerships with the total of 18 learners achieved bank Albaraka Bank for over The 2007 Overall Top The award, still in its pilot MJC Youth Desk where distinctions, Petersen report- their unflinching support, Achiever - IMA Trophy stage was to highlight the we have empowered them ed. “Even though the num- Frysche Marketing and of Academic Excellence achievements of Muslim by improving their writing ber of learners who achieved Hijri Travel for sponsorto Omar in addition to a learners at the six indepen- skills. Often, these young distinctions are few, we are ing the 2nd and 3rd prizes, Futuregrowth Albaraka dent Muslim schools in people would complain hoping that the awards will Salies Electrical, Ummati Equity Fund (A Shariah the province according to that their achievements jack them up a bit.” and the MJC Youth Desk. compliant unit trust invest- organiser, Sanaa Petersen, were never acknowledged. ment) valued at R2500-00. Director of the Islamic Media Through this, we realised Three of the top ten told

Congratulations to the 2007 Academic Achievers of the Independent Muslim High Schools. Wishing our young leaders a successful and bright future.

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February 2008 - Safar 1429

Abuse of parents – a neglected plight By Ismail Osman

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he plight of abuse against children has over the years been prioritized by the NGO sector as a top priority on their agenda and has drawn the attention of our Legislators, resulting in government formulating stringent laws with heavy punitive measures to deal with perpetrators of this crime. In no-way am I criticizing this very necessary and long overdue move by all, but my point is that while we focus much of our energies on the safety and the prevention of our children from abuse, very little is said or done with regard to parent abuse. This particular type of crime is on the increase, yet it escapes, as much as we parents try to wish it away, it is there and needs to be addressed. After perusing the following quranic chapters and verses namely, C17:23-24; C29:8; C31:14-15; C46:15 you will discover how serious the Almighty views the crime of parent-abuse. In these verses it becomes clear that the child has no justification whatsoever to treat its parents with disrespect. The Almighty makes it abundantly clear that event if the parents to persuade the child to ascribe partners to Him, the child should in no way obey their parents, but still maintain the love and respect for them. The child is constantly reminded of the trials, trauma and tribulations the parents underwent in raising them, with specific reminders of the hard times the mother experienced during her pregnancy. Once again the Almighty reminds the child of its total dependence whilst in its infantile stages until it reached the age where it could fight and fend for itself.

In early days many of our parents were not afforded the luxury of high academic education. The earlier generation of parents were largely victim to circumstances and had to suffice with only a few years of primary learning, with very few reaching secondary level, let alone tertiary or university level. They were forced to leave school in order to earn a living to sustain their families. In many instances mothers had to work in the absence of the father. Academics, intellectuals, professors were few and far between.

rooms when colleagues of the academia frequent our posh residence. The ‘old folks’ or ‘oxygen thieves’ are some of the unbecoming names we call them. They appear to be a nuisance and children find it difficult to tolerate their parents socalled irresponsible behavior when they’ve reached old age or bordering on senility. Parents are becoming a nuisance to children when they have become ill and frail. Children have forgotten the narration of the Prophet (saw), ‘Al Jannatu tagta aqdaamul Ummahaat’ meaning ‘The paradise lies at the feet of the mothers.’ Some

children place their Jannats in old-age homes. Interestingly, in the past two parents could raise and average of twelve children under the most trying conditions, but twelve children find it a major problem to tend to one or two parents. Lastly, to illustrate the value placed on parents , I would like to narrate an incident during the time of the Prophet (saw). A man came to the Prophet (saw) saying that he had repaid his parents for everything that they had done for him. The Prophet (saw) enquired as to what it was which was so important,

Ismail Osman is the public relations officer of the Islamic Social and Welfare Association (ISWA)

In this modern day and age the situation has changed significantly. Every second family prides a doctor, lawyer, teacher, chartered accountant, engineer and many other academics. This begs the question, How is this turn-around possible? Many parents went through life struggling to provide a ‘better’ quality of education for their children. Some parents went to extreme measures (sacrifices) to acquire financial assistance to ensure their children completed tertiary education. If we should ask our parents what payment they expected for all their patience, perseverance, love and sacrifices. The answer would be simple, they expect no materialistic return only love, respect, appreciation and kindness. The rights which the Almighty enjoins on us, which is due to our parents. Sadly, instead of reciprocating their love, sacrifices and kindness, some of us, children have become arrogant and self-important, viewing our parents as an embarrassment. We hide our parents away when our high profile socialites come to visit. Locked away in back

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Happy 80th birthday Mama To my dearest grandmother, Gadija Brown, who celebrated her birthday on 1 February, 2008, at Cosy Corner, in the dreadful black-out. Shukr to Allah (swt) for honouring me with your love, wisdom, kindness and compassion. Love: Sanaa Petersen This is my grandmother, do you have a picture of your grandmother, we would love to honour her. Email: [email protected] or fax us on 021 697 2304

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when the man replied, “I carried them in Tawaaf around the holy Kaabah, and there is no greater act done to parents than this.’ The Prophet (saw) answered that even if he carried his parents for a thousand circumambulations of the Kaabah it would not be equivalent to one drop of milk his mother fed to him when he was a baby.

Congratulations to the 2007 Academic Achievers of the Independent Muslim High Schools. Wishing our young leaders a successful and bright future. 5 Range Road, Kenwyn Tel: 021 797 2726 Fax: 021 797 4969 Email:[email protected]/ [email protected]

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Congratulations to the 2007 Academic Achievers of the Independent Muslim Congratulations to the 2007 Academic High Schools. Wishing our Achievers of the Independent Muslim young leaders a successful and bright future. High Schools. Wishing our young Specialists in Motor Insurance, Domestic, Commercial and all other classes of Insurance, Life Assurance

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February 2008 - Safar 1429

continuing from page 3

required in specific households and implement them as a matter of urgency. We shall this year attend to other specific priorities which are critical to the country's war against poverty, in pursuit of socio-economic inclusion. These are: * speeding up land and agrarian reform with detailed plans for land acquisition, better implementation of agricultural support services and household food support, and improving the capital base and reach of the Micro-Agricultural Finance Institutions of South Africa (MAFISA) to provide microcredit in this sector: focus will be placed on areas of large concentrations of farm dwellers and those with high eviction rates, and we aim to increase black entrepreneurship in agricultural production by 5% per year, and the audit on land ownership will be speeded up; * the Budget will provide for an increase in the social grant system by equalising the age of eligibility at 60, thus benefiting about half a million men;

* intensifying efforts already started to scale up assistance to co-operatives and small enterprises especially those involving women, with emphasis on providing training and markets, including linking them up with established outlets; * scaling up the National Youth Service programme including a graduated increase of the intake in the Military Skills Development programme of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) from the current 4 000 to 10 000. R700 million has already been given to the SANDF to start scaling up this programme; * intensifying the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) which, by surpassing the set targets, has shown potential to absorb more entrants: this will include increased intake of young people in the programme to maintain public infrastructure, doubling the number of children enrolled in Early Childhood Development to over 600 000 through 1 000 new sites with more than 3 500 practitioners trained and employed, and increasing the number of care-givers. About R1 billion over baseline will be allocated

to programmes that fall within the EPWP; and, lastly, * introducing the system of products for preferential procurement by government from small, medium and microenterprises; and through the Small Enterprises Development Agency setting up a rigorous system to ensure that the 30-day payment period is observed. We will also integrate the programme to speed up the development of sustainable human settlements, with intensified efforts, as a matter of urgent priority, to accelerate universal access to water, sanitation and electricity, so that by 2014, we should have decent human settlements and access by all households to these services. Accelerating our advance towards the achievement of a goal of health for all includes intensified implementation of the National Strategic Plan against HIV and AIDS. We also aim during the course of this year to reduce tuberculosis (TB) defaulter rates from 10% to 7%, train over 3 000 health personnel in the management of this disease and ensure that all multi-drug resistant and extreme drug resistant TB patients receive treatment.

Book Reviews By Roshaan Misbach Blissful Marriage is an excellent book, aimed at both single people and married couples alike. It is an easy read and a practical guide for young and mature adults. It adequately introduces the objectives for marriage which are unfortunately not always considered when embarking on this extremely important journey. The authors challenges one to question and ponder about what one should look for in a potential spouse be it male or female. A brilliant and detailed questionnaire is also included to assist and guide with the selection process. We now make our way to tried and proven ingredients for a successful marriage, can you imagine what these could possibly be : • The 7 Essential C’s • The 5 Wonderful A’s • The 7 Magical S’s You’ll definitely have to read the book to find out as it also discusses other ingredients such as • Rahmah • Love • Forgiveness • Trust and Faithfulness • Open mindedness and Understanding • Respect • Patience What I loved about the book is that it’s filled with examples based on Quran and Hadith.

I found the chapter on Tazkiyah (Purification of the Soul), particularly fascinating. It is encouraging to see that an entire chapter is devoted to this very important aspect, emphasizing the fact that in order to have a wholesome relationship one has to continually strive to purify one’s own soul. There’s still loads more gems e.g case studies on common marital problems and not forgetting family dynamics but buy the book and discover it for yourself. Title: Blissful Marriage , A Practical Islamic Guide Authors: Dr Ekram and M Rida Beshir Paperback: 278 pages Publisher: Amana Publications (August 2003) Language: English ISBN-10: 159008019X ISBN-13: 978-1590080191 Sister Roshaan has started a Muslimah book club, please call her on 083 647 3707 for more details.

We aim to complete the work on the comprehensive social security system, benefiting from the consultations that have started with social partners. Youth The first of these is a proposal that we should develop an oath that will be recited by learners in their morning school assemblies, as well as a Youth Pledge extolling the virtues of humane conduct and human solidarity among all South Africans. The Minister of Education will next week elaborate on the national debate on these matters. Crime Cabinet has agreed on a set of changes that are required to establish a new, modernised, efficient and transformed criminal justice system. Among other things, this will entail setting up a new co-ordinating and management structure for the system at every level, from national to local, bringing together the judiciary and magistracy, the police, prosecutors, correctional services and the Legal Aid Board, as well as other interventions, including the empowerment of the Community Police Forums.

We shall also, during the course of this year, process the Bills on the transformation of the judiciary in consultation with judges and magistrates, complete the strategy aimed at strengthening border control and security, further give life to the Victims' Charter, pay particular attention to the issue of repeat offenders, and continue the implementation of additional measures deriving from recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Informed by the imperative to intensify the offensive against organised crime, as well as the recommendations of the Khampepe Judicial Commission on the functioning and location of the Directorate of Special Operations and continuing reflections on this matter, we shall by the end of March this year, interact with Parliament on legislation and other decisive measures required further to enhance our capacity to fight organised crime. What I do know and hereby make bold to say is: whatever the challenges of the moment, we are still on course! Please email your views, addressed to Dear Mr President

Aziza’s Exotic Chicken Curry Ingredients • 1 x 1,5kg chicken cut into portions • 3 medium-sized onions • 65 ml butter or ghee • 2 x Shaikhs Exotics stick cinnamon pieces • 3 x Shaikhs Exotics whole cardamon • 2 x Shaikhs Exotics whole cloves • 5 ml salt or to taste • 30 ml garlic and ginger paste • 20 ml Shaikhs Exotics Chicken Masala • 2.5 ml Shaikhs Exotics Garam Masala • 125 ml coconut milk • 30 ml tomato puree • 3 potatoes quartered • 375 ml water • ¼ bunch fresh coriander leaves, washed and chopped

Method 1. Braise onions with stick cinnamon, cardamon and cloves in butter till golden brown. 2. In a bowl make a paste with Chicken Masala, Garam masala, tomato puree, ginger and garlic paste and 1 cup (250ml) water. 3. Add masala paste to onions and cook for 5 min. 4. Add chicken pieces and cook for 5 min. so that the chicken is well coated with spice mix. 5. Add 375ml water and cook for 10 min. 6. Add potatoes and coconut milk and cook for 10 min. or until potatoes are soft. 7. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves. 8. Serve with basmati rice or rotis and papadams Optional:

Add 50g raw cashews when adding potatoes for an exotic taste

This Exotic Chicken Curry can be made the day before as the flavour increases the next day. Enjoy !

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February 2008 - Safar 1429

NURJAHAN, CHAMPION OF FAMILY LAW By Mymoena Arnold Tape

U

pon first meeting with Nurjahan Khan, you cannot help but be enamoured by her verbal feistiness and firm resolve. Meeting her on a particularly cold Cape Town morning, I was surprised to find a modestlyclad woman before me, devoid of designer labels and accessories, with a warm smile and engaging personality. She definitely did not conform to the general stereotyping of female lawyers, chic and emotionally defunct. So much for stereotyping! Hailing from a suburb called Kensington in Cape Town, Nurjahan Khan is one of seven siblings. Patriarchal traits were very evident in Nurjahan’s home. However as a girlchild, finding herself in a man’s world, she would constantly question and challenge. She attributes these patriarchal traits to our apartheid legacy and cultural impositions, “during the apartheid days, games were played and men played these games while the women were just expected to follow, used like pawns in it all”. Nurjahan, however says she never saw herself as a victim, “since you can choose whether you want to be a victim or not”. Twenty-eight year old Nurjahan enrolled for matric part-time, intent on pursuing her childhood dream to study Law. Three weeks before she was due to write her final matric exams, having persevered and persisted for three years, Nurjahan suffered a personal

setback. Her husband of ten years was tragically killed in a motor vehicle accident in Johannesburg. Widowed with three children to fend for, her spirits were at an all time low. However, sheer determination managed to get Nurjahan through her matric.

also introduced, empowering social workers from diverse communities on the Cape Flats, with a comprehensive understanding of South African Family Law, using her book as a guiding and informative tool. She points out that, “I offer workshops as a service to the community so that people are more equipped and informed when they visit the courts and police stations.”

In 1985, she enrolled at the University of the Western Cape for a B.A. degree full-time, since she was now undecided between Law or Psychology. However, during 1986 she eventually made up her mind and switched over to Law. However tragedy was to strike yet again, when in that same year Nurjahan’s mother fell seriously ill with cancer. Nurjahan summarily abandoned her studies to tend to her mother, who passed on shortly thereafter. Nurjahan resumed her studies part-time despite the emotional turmoil raging within. She started working at the Department of Justice in 1996, leaving in 2001 to set up her own advice office, “assisting complainants with problems such as child maintenance, divorce, access, custody and protection orders”. All of this while still pursuing her studies. In 2005, after 20 years of hard labour, personal trials and tribulations, Nurjahan completed her studies. Today Nurjahan Khan is an esteemed and accomplished advocate of the Cape High Court. When it comes to

Nurjahan has on record repeatedly commented that the Justice Deparment “has dismally failed the people and let the children down”.

justice and the implementation thereof Nurjahan, dedicates her professional labour to ensuring that no stone is left unturned or allowed to pile for too long. In the foreword of her recently self-published and warmlyreceived book, Law and I (2006), she says, “Most challenging is the issue of child support and domestic violence having the most devastating socio-economic effect on women and children. I found it difficult indeed, to keep issues of maintenance, divorce, access and custody separate because they are so intrinsically interlinked within the complex nature of domestic relationships”. Herein lies the depth of Nurjahan’s passion for justice, evident in the Family Law course she has

Adding to this Nurjahan makes a very serious concluding statement at the end of her book, “ We are a long way from rectifying past imbalances. What is required is progressive restructuring and reshaping of mindsets in government to facilitate social cohesion in order to attain Constitutional value of human dignity”. In order to spread the word, create a deeper and increased awareness, Nurjahan has distributed her book free of charge to various NGOs on the Cape Flats. Her hope is that these NGOs will invest in purchasing more copies of the book to help their fieldworkers, who deal with these actual cases on the ground. She also hopes to take her workshops to other provinces as well. Asked whether her family life was ever adversely affected, Nurjahan

comments “ I am saddened, because often we compromise on family time to serve the community, so one must try and strike the balance.” Nurjahan says she has “always been inclined to run to people’s assistance”, drawn to helping others in need or dire straits. An established pillar of support and source of refuge within her family, professional and social circles. She has always “felt obliged to come to the rescue” of those who call on her. Cape Town is fortunate to have such a champion in the legal arena within the ambit of child support, custody, access and domestic violence, with the necessary moral will and fortitude to help ensure her that she contributes productively and positively to the collective upliftment, empowerment, education and more importantly, protection of the weak and vulnerable, at all times. Nurjahan’s book, Law and I, is available at the following Cape Town outlets : Shaiks Exotics in Lansdowne, I Care Children’s Foundation and at Newworld Foundation at a cost of R169.00 . The books are also available on the shelves at municipal libraries in the Western Cape. If you have any questions for Nurjahan please email us on info@ islamicmedia.co.za or fax on 0865 038 747.

SAXONSEA HARDWARE & GIFTS Lentegeur, Mitchells Plain Tel: 021 372 1106 Fax: 021 372 1110

Congratulations to the 2007 Academic Achievers of the Independent Muslim High Schools. Wishing our young leaders a successful and bright future.

Congratulations to the 2007 Academic Achievers of the Independent Muslim High Schools. Wishing our young leaders a successful and bright future. Sincerely Imam Achmad Dien of Masjid Ummah, Kent cresc, Saxonsea, Atlantis Cnr Hermes Avenue & Grosvenor roads, Saxonsea, Atlantis, 7349 Cnr Hermes Avenue & Grosvenor roads, Saxonsea, Atlantis, 7349 Tel: 021 572 5466/4560 Fax: 021 572 7189

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February 2008 - Safar 1429

AN URGENT APPEAL FROM JEWISH RABBIS, TO THE CANDIDATES RUNNING FOR THE PRESIDENCY OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A group of Anti-Zionist Orthodox Jewish Rabbis toured several New Hampshire sites on 7 January 2008, campaigning the end of the Zionist State of Israel. "We all have been witness to the tragedy of the strife and bloodshed, in the most holy of places, the Holy Land. This pain and suffering has been ongoing, unabated, for well over fifty years,

that mistrust and deep rooted animosity exists between these people? The answer is actually very clear and simple. The birth of a wholly new and entirely materialistic movement named "Zionism". "Zionism" is the basis of the State of "Israel", and is not the same as the religion, Judaism. In fact it is antithetical to Judaism.

The time has come to step back and truthfully analyze the root cause of all this suffering, to Arab and Jew, alike.

Zionism is a political movement, created almost entirely by non-religious Jews. Its existence is a mere hundred years.

From ancient times, the relations between the Jewish and Arab peoples, have been those of peace, brotherhood and harmonic coexistence. Friendship reigned between them in all the Muslim countries. What has transpired to cause such a complete reversal,

The philosophy of Zionism is the transformation of Judaism, from a religion and spirituality, to a base nationalism. It is a materialistic goal to have a land, army etc., removing the Almighty out of the equation.

Orthodox Jews have opposed the ideology of Zionism since its inception and the State of Israel from the day of its ratification. The existence of the State of Israel is in direct contradiction to the teachings of the Torah which forbids the establishment of a Jewish state and commands Jews to remain in exile until released from that exile by the Almighty Himself, without any human intervention, at which time all nations of the world will live together in peace. This rebellion against the Almighty has been compounded immeasurably by the fact that in order to create this State, a land has been taken, clearly against the will of the indigenous population, the Palestinian people. Many have been murdered, their homes and properties have been confiscated and untold thousands have been expelled,

NURUSH SHABAAB QIRAH WINNERS S

hukrie Frydie, Mogamad Rafiq Salie and Shaikh Mogamad Adiel Brown emerged as the winners of the second national Qur’aan recital competition held under the auspices of Nurush Shabaab in South Africa. The event kicked of on 3 December 2007 with recitations of the Holy Qur’aan by reciters from Malaysia, Iran, Indonesia and Lebanon at various mosques in the Western Cape. More than 50 participants from across South Africa entered the contest out of which five top reciters qualified in the Junior and Teenage categories and six reciters in the Senior category of the competition finals.

The national competition which was held at the Masjidur Rahmaan complex in Hanover Park, Cape Town, commenced on 7 December and ended with the competition finals on 9 December. Yusuf Fisher and Waseem Shaikh achieved first and second runner up positions in the Junior category respectively while Muhammad Ameen Abdoraooft and Ismail Ebrahim attained second and third place in the Teenage category. The second and third place positions in the Senior category were taken by Shaikh Fahmie Parker and Shaikh Muhammad Allie Davids. Waseem Shaikh who hails from Durban was the only participant from outside Cape Town to reach the top positions in the competition.

Junior category winners at the Nurush Shabaab Qirah competition with 1st place Shukri Frydie, 2nd place Yusuf Fisher and Waseem Shaikh took 3rd place

etc., their suffering continues unabated until the present day. We decry, in the strongest of terms this ongoing crime and tragedy. The anti Zionist Jewish people sees itself as simply continuing the Jewish people’s age old obligation of living humbly and in peace with all nations, in loyalty to their authorities, as is required by the Torah. Rabbis, Orthodox Jewish leaders and laymen, have combated the concept of Zionism continuously since its inception and up until the present day. True Torah Jews will never accept Zionism and the State of ‘Israel’. Supporting the Palestinian people, does not make one, in any way, less of a friend of the Jewish people and most certainly does not

label one an anti-Semite. In fact, the contrary the mere existence of the state of Israel and the actions that emanate from it is the greatest cause of the exacerbation of anti-Semitism throughout the world. How much more Arab and Jewish blood must be spilled? May we merit to see the day, soon in our times, when all humanity will serve the Almighty in brotherhood and harmony. AMEN." For more information please contact Rabbi Yisroel Dovid Weiss at 914-262-8342 Neturei Karta International, Jews United Against Zionism - www.nkusa.org

MATHEMATIC EXTRAORDINAIRES Saadiq Moolla, 18, matriculated from Rondebosch Boys High withdistinctions and is a Mathematics genius. His love for the mathematics subject enabled him to compete in the International Mathematics Olympiad in 2006, which was held in Slovenia and again in 2007 in Vietnam. In 2005 he represented South Africa in the Pan-Africa Mathematics competition which was held in Algeria. 'I enjoy mathematics, it is interesting and intricate... I love challenges,' said Saadiq. He is very keen in helping others to study

mathematics and intends on tutoring primary school learners, but first has to settle in at the University of Cape Town (UCT), where he is studying Medicine. Following in big brother's footsteps is his little brother, Haroon, 17, who has competed in the 2007 Pan-Africa Mathematics competition which was held in Nigeria. 'We are very proud of our sons and support them in their quest,' said their dad, Dr Shabir Moolla

Haroon and Saadiq Moolla, mathematic extraordinaires

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Congratulations to the 2007 Academic Achievers of the Independent Muslim High Schools. Wishing our young leaders a successful and bright future.

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February 2008 - Safar 1429

THE MUSLIMAH OF BONTEHEUWEL CELEBRATES MUHARRAM

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atiefah Hendricks from Bonteheuwel, a married home executive and mother of three, decided a year ago to host a social event for the Muslim ladies in her area, including family and friends, during the month of Muharram, as part of her Islamic social obligation. This year the Muharram celebration was held at Bellville Swimming Baths, from 9am till 13h30. The guest complement cut across all ages, hailing from diverse spheres of life.

The keynote address was delivered by Soraya Salie, a revert and cancer survivor of note. 72 year old Amina Philander, a past primary school teacher of Pioneer Primary Bonteheuwel, enthralled the guests with her Haj tales and buckets of wisdom. Activities for the morning included an introduction to fabric painting and for the more adventurous, a dip in the swimming pool with some exercises to boot.

Soraya Salie reading a poem to the guests of the Ladies Muharram celebration held at Bellville Swimming baths

Guests were treated to a lavish breakfast spread and finger lunch, followed by an array of desserts.

AL-AZHAR PRIMARY CELEBRATES MUHARRAM WITH THEIR ELDERLY NEIGHBOURS T he highlight for the Muslim and non-Muslim residents of Lotus River each Muharram is a day of pampering. The Al-Azhar Primary school in Lotus River, treats their elderly neighbours to a five-course lunch with live entertainment. After all the pampering, each guest, is given a ‘barakaat’ filled with biscuits, fruit, bread, lindt chocolates, monetary contribution and more.

AFGHANISTAN Community health workers in the frontlines of health care I

n Chaka, a village with a population of about 1,750, community health workers Abdul Qayum Habibi and Shafiqa Habibi, a married couple, work together to provide essential health care and referrals. Selected by the local shura, or village council, according to criteria such as literacy, the trust and respect of the community and their level of commitment as volunteers, they are two of four community health workers here. After their selection, the

couple undertook a six-month training course based on a standard curriculum endorsed by the Ministry of Public Health. During the course, they learned about common health problems, first aid, raising health awareness in the community and making referrals to the nearest health centre, a twohour walk away. Alongside his new responsibilities, Abdul Qayum continues his work as a schoolteacher in the village, while Shafiqa is also a housewife and mother.

EHP

Ekeraams Halaal Polony cold meat processing

Congratulations to the 2007 Academic Achievers of the Independent Muslim High Schools. Wishing our young leaders a successful and bright future.

Arnold Centre, Westflour Circle, Atlantis Tel: 021-572 0966 Cell: 082-338 9274 [email protected]

are barred by tradition from

dren and women of all ages.

Providing health care contact with men other than We have cases of diarrhoea, those in their families. “It is pneumonia and also many as a couple It is unusual for women to venture outside their homes to work in many parts of rural Afghanistan. Health care provided by couples, therefore, has distinct advantages, both for the providers and the recipients. In Chaka, not only does Shafiqa have the opportunity to work for the health of her community, but she is also able to bring health messages home to women who

difficult for women to work with men,” Abdul Qayum explains. “At least as husband and wife we can work together, where I work with the men and my wife works with the women.” Shafiqa agrees “As a couple, both men and women in our village feel comfortable coming to us discussing their health problems,” she says. “In our village, I work with chil-

children facing malnutrition. I also talk to mothers about the importance of breastfeeding.” Like this dedicated couple in Chaka, community health workers across rural Afghanistan enter into a transparent and vital contract with their community, delivering health messages and services where they are needed most.

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Property Feature Focus March edition

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February 2008 - Safar 1429

MAIL BAG – LETTERS, EMAIL AND SMS [email protected] • fax 021 697 2304 sms 074 227 4345 FOR THE REMOVAL PETITION TO BE SIGNED; PLEASE LOG ON; _http://www.thepetitionsite.com/2/ removal-of-the-pics-of-muhammadfrom-wikipedia_

Learn to deal with your reality Part 1

Photograph of Prophet Muhammad (saw) posted on Wikipedia Wikipedia site has published the image of the Prophet Mohammad (saw). Please sign the petition on the below mentioned link to have it removed. We need 10,000 signatures to get pictures of Prophet be removed from WIKIPEDIA. So far only 4300 signatures are obtained. Please act now! JAZAKALLAHU KHAIRA. Also, please inform all your Muslim contacts. FOR PICTURE OF PROPHET AND DETAILS OF ISLAMIC MOVEMENT http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammad_

In this life, if you inwardly disparage something you can't have, its value will diminish for you. And if you are not contented with not getting something that you really wanted, then your heart will find solace. "Allah will give us His Bounty, and [also] His Messenger [from alms, ect]. We implore Allah [to enrich us]." (Quran 9: 59) I once read about a man who fell out of a window . The ring he was wearing became stuck around a nail that was'nt nailed down completely on the ledge, and consequently, his ring finger was pulled from its root, leaving him with four fingers. The amazing thing is not the incedent itself, but the contenment

shown by the man long after the accident, contentment that that is illustrated in the following words, "It hardly ever crosses my that I have four fingers on one hand or that I have lost a finger. It only comes back when I remember the accident. Otherwise, my work is going well and I am content with what happned"

imposed upon us. Fifty years ago, a house consisted of a carpet made from palm tree leaves, a jug for water, a small amount of coal, and a fewother paltry items. People managed as they do now, and a lack of resources or comfort did not make life any less important that it is now.

An Arab poet said:"The soul desires more if you encourage it, But it returns to contentment when it is disciplined" (BY Aaid ibn Abdullah al-Qarni) email by Faagir

"Allah has made His decree, and as He pleases, he does." I know a man who lost his left arm as a result of desease. He has lived for many years since: he got married and has children. He drives his car without difficulty and performs the various tasks of his work with ease. He is so at ease that it is as if Allah created him with only one arm to begin with. "Be content with what Allah has portioned out for you and you will be the richest of people" How quickly we adapt to our circumstances! And it is amazing how we adapt our thinking when a change in life-style is

The Indonesian Consul-General, Mr Andradjati with Antonia Malan of the Transcription of Estate Papers at the Cape of Good Hope, SA (TECP) hosted a workshop on 26 January, in developing strategies to attract community participation in research on the 'exiles' and 'bandieten' at the Cape. If you would like to know about your ancestors or have 'kitaabs' or information to share, please contact TECP on info@ capetranscripts.co.za or 021 650 2358

POWER OBSCURING RAPE by Azad Essa and Aisha Lorgat

One of the most disconcerting diseases doing the rounds these days, other than those of a bio-medical type - is impassioned denial to any and every point of critique that appear to undermine our reconciliatory, brilliant optimistic post-1994 South African brand. This inclination towards denial alludes to a literal one-party democracy too drunk with power to separate ideology from the rational problem solving and constructive debate that are the basic tenets of a democratic culture. Moreover, with such thirst for power comes an inevitable guilt that is played out in defensive rants bred by fascist ambitions for power, resulting in a selfperpetuating vicious cycle. This guilt furthermore creates a desire to attack critics and recast them as the 'other' - enemies of the new South African democracy, because the revolution and the revolutionaries are infallible. As the run-up to Polokwane has thus far illustrated, the cannibalism for power's sake has long begun. This sort of thirst for establishing power, ideology and personal achievement at national leadership level is filtering very fast through the structures of regional, local and student leadership. The National Democratic Revolution (NDR), as many in positions of power remind us is a never-ending process with national leadership providing tacit

mentorship to local and student leaders, with fancy political jobs almost guaranteed in order to carry on these later stages of the revolution. After all, politicians pass on or join business, or both, and the next rung of political leadership must come through to take over the reins. What we have ultimately is an assembly-line of arse-licking student leaders prepared to sacrifice even the respect and dignity of their own mothers to further their political careers. In no other forum has this been better exemplified than in the events that took place during this week's mass meeting between University management, security services, staff members and students over security issues at UKZN, following the rape of a UKZN student in the residences a week ago. In a forum that was designed to showcase the measures and mechanisms that were to be upgraded and improved to avoid a repeat of the tragic event, the issue degenerated into a politically charged circus. Student representatives formally condemned the 'alleged' rape with the sincerity of an MP addressing poor communities during election time. This condemnation was aptly followed by bizarre allegations that the University community's mobilization and collective outrage to the rape case was essen-

tially race-based, because the victim was an international student, and by implication, not a black student. A black African rape victim is as victimised and oppressed as a White rape victim. Their suffering is the same irrespective of their racial/cultural backgrounds and also irrespective of the level of attention the crime receives after the fact. In this case, gendered analysis of issues around identity and power must take precedence over all other analytical prisms. Women are disproportionately the victims of gender based violence, and therestoration of agency needs to occur in a space defined by and for women. References to the Zuma rape allegations (with the implication that as he was found not guilty all other allegations of rape are to be mistrusted) serve only to perpetuate a misogynistic sexist point of view that results effectively in a re-victimisation of the woman involved. Some statistics say that 10 women are raped every four minutes in this country, and that a woman is killed every six hours by a man close to her. Statistics are a notoriously inaccurate way to understand society and its workings and they of course conceal as much or more than they reveal. Nevertheless the aforementioned fig-

ures are extremely difficult to ignore. They suggest that South African women are under attack in an undeclared war perpetuated primarily by men. The fact that it is undeclared makes it ever more difficult to fight against. In fact, history shows us that when we try and draw attention to the unacceptably high rates of gender violence (ala Charlize Theron and the rape ads), we are labelled as unpatriotic, and as tarnishing the image of the rainbow that is supposedly representative of a reconciled, democratic South Africa. This knee-jerk jingoistic reaction forgets that when over half the population lives and dies in fear of the other half, the rainbow has long disappeared. And the attempt to reduce this issue to a race based one is reprehensible, as it serves mainly to dilute and displace the arguments around gender-based violence. Perhaps a psychological perspective is needed to understand why men abuse and brutalise women. Perhaps it's an instance of mummy didn't love me enough so I will go out and hurt other women. Whatever the case may be, it is undeniable that South African society is dysfunctional in the extreme and perhaps part of the explanation does have historical roots. But these are inadequate in explaining the particular violence perpetrated against women so frequently. Going back to statistics, we have, arguably, the highest rate of rape in the world (other than in situations of

war). This level of violence is not easily hidden away and trying to displace the issue simply serves to increase anger and frustration. Nevertheless, there is a perception that there are greater levels of security from violence within the confines of the campus than outside it. Whether this is justified or not is obviously questionable given the numerous security breaches that have been experienced. Perhaps the short term measures that need to be put in place to ensure that students are able to study without excessive levels of fear need to involve a trade-off between security and freedom at least until South African society normalizes to an acceptable level. This could involve implementing draconian access control measures particularly in the residences. It could also involve providing all (female) students with personal security devices (like stun-guns or pepper spray) that would enable them to take back some agency in terms of providing for their security especially at this vulnerable time. Other measures obviously need to include better training of security personnel, and perhaps making gender sensitivity literature widely available to the whole university community. Azad Essa and Aisha Lorgat are researchers at IOLS-Research

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February 2008 - Safar 1429

GUANTANAMO DETAINEE INFECTED WITH HIV VIRUS U

S Attorney H. Candace Gorman has revealed that her client Abdul Hamid Al-Ghizzawi has been infected with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Al Ghizzawi believes the infection happened during medical procedures at Guantanamo in 2004 when he was given a blood test which resulted in alarm amongst the hospital staff. Al Ghizzawi was not given any explanation for the alarm at the time. As a result Al-Ghizzawi has now been told that he is suf-

fering from Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). Having already been suffering from Hepatitis B and Tuberculosis (which he also acquired at Guantanamo) Al Ghizzawi has been held in severe isolation in Camp 6. Gorman filed an emergency application with the US Supreme Court asking that the US military be ordered to treat Al-Ghizzawi’s medical problems and for medical records to be turned over to her. Chief Judge Roberts

denied the motion despite it being stated by the chief medical doctor at Guantanamo, Dr Sollock, that Al-Ghizzawi did not suffer from any ill health on arrival to the base. Al-Ghizzawi’s health has rapidly deteriorated and Cageprisoners calls for the immediate release of his medical records so that adequate medical treatment can be given to the detainee. Spokesman for Cageprisoners and former Guantanamo detainee, Moazzam Begg said,

“That a man who has endured more than half a decade in the world’s most infamous prison – without charge or trial – is now infected with the world’s most dreaded disease is preposterous. How will the US administration explain this one to his family? More ‘robust interrogation techniques’?” With Al-Ghizzawi’s condition as it is, Candace Gorman made the following plea,

civilian turned over to the Americans in response to a bounty (cash American dollars for Arabs). Al-Ghizzawi has been taken from his wife and young daughter and he will die if he is not given immediate medical care, and yet the American military cannot be bothered… I ask that all of you please contact the American state department and ask them to release this innocent and very ill man.”

“Al-Ghizzawi is an innocent

CHAD’S SPIRALING CONFLICT F

our rebel groups have been fighting to overthrow Idriss Deby, Chad's president, who seized power in a Libyan-backed uprising in 1990. After leading a lightning three-week offensive from Sudan's Darfur region to topple Hissene Habre, Deby became president. He was then elected in the country's first multi-party election in 1996. In 2001 he was reelected for a second term. However, large-scale desertions from the army in 2004 and 2005, which forced Deby to disband his presidential guard and form a new elite military force, weakened the president's position and encouraged the growth of armed opposition groups.

The Rally for Democracy and Liberation (RDL) was formed in August 2005, and the Platform for Unity, Democracy and Change (SCUD), two months later, to overthrow the current government, accusing it of being corrupt and totalitarian. Later that year, the RDL and SCUD joined six other groups to form the United Front for Democracy and Change (FUCD). Ndjamena attacked In April 2006, FUCD brought Chad to the brink of all-out civil war, crossing the entire country as far as the capital before government forces were able to repel the attack with French logistical and intelligence support.

Deby blamed the attack on the Sudanese government, claiming that many of the rebels were either Sudanese backed by their government or residents of Chad conscripted by the Sudanese. The battle occurred just months after a conflict between Khartoum and Ndjamena had ended with the signing of the Tripoli Agreement. Deby broke off relations with Sudan as a result, expelling its diplomats and threatening to stop giving shelter to thousands of Darfur refugees. Three weeks later Deby was re-elected for a third time, capitalising on a change to the constitution that removed a two-term limit for heads of state and an age limit of 70 for presidential candidates.

The opposition boycotted the election. In November, a state of emergency was imposed in the capital after an escalation of activity by armed rebel groups. Peace accord Hostilities left hundreds of people dead in clashes in the east but in October last year four rebel groups signed a peace accord with the government. Deby described it as the last chance for peace. Mahamat Nour Abdelkerim, the leader of the FUCD, was made defence minister after the peace deal was signed.

whose inhabitants are mostly of black African descent, killing around 300 people. In late November the accord all but totally collapsed when Abdelkerim accused Deby of ordering an attack on his fighters. In December, Abdelkerim was removed from his position and his faction rejoined the armed opposition. The conflict is further complicated by about 240,000 refugees from Darfur who have crossed the border and now live in a number of camps alongside about 180,000 Chadians displaced by violence. (Al-Jazeera)

The peace deal was undermined when Arab horsemen raided and torched villages

AUSTRALIA HONOURS MUSLIM EXPLORERS T

he National Library in Canberra, Australia, hosted an exhibition in December dusting off the neglected and unrecorded great contributions of Muslim cameleers to Australia in the 19th century. "Muslims have come to this country and contributed blood, sweat and tears," said Philip Jones, the curator of the "Pioneers of the Inland: Australia's Muslim Cameleers" exhibition.

Jones added that expedition diaries confirm several cameleers deserve the status of "explorers." "Cameleers assisted all major expeditions into Australia's uncharted interior, starting with the Burke and Wills expedition in 1860, and have contributed significantly to Australia's economic and cultural development," he said. "They successfully negotiated these enormous obsta-

cles across the landscape and brought supplies and provisions and took wool and minerals back to ports from the inland in a way that was predictable and efficient."

With the arrival of motorcars, many of them returned home but some remained, married and established communities and mosques in outback towns.

Nearly three thousand cameleers came to Australia between 1860 and 1930.

Jones notes that Muslim pioneers enjoyed an atmosphere of tolerance and freedom of religion unlike today.

Nineteen of every 20 were Muslims and their effect on inland Australia was profound, said Jones.

"I think in ways that we would tend to be a bit surprised by now because after all these are people coming into small

country towns, building religious mosques, praying five times a day, holding their religious festivals, speaking in a foreign language....a whole range of cultural practices and gestures which are today greeted with some kind of irritation if they're encountered in Australian society."

12

February 2008 - Safar 1429

CHIEF RABBI SAYS MOVE GAZANS TO A PALESTINE IN SINAI By Saul Sadka

A

shkenazi Chief Rabbi Yona Metzger has been quoted as calling for Gazans to be transferred to the Sinai Peninsula, to a Palestinian state which he said could be constructed for them in the desert. In an interview in English with the British weekly The Jewish News, the chief rabbi also said that while peaceable Muslims should be allowed to pray in Jerusalem mosques, they should recognize that Jerusalem belongs to the Jews. Muslims have Mecca and Medina, he was quoted as saying, adding that "you don't need a third place." Metzger called for Britain, the European Union and the United States to assist in the construction of a Palestinian state in

Egypt's Sinai Desert. According to Metzger, the plan would be to "take all the poor people from Gaza to move them to a wonderful new modern country with trains buses cars, like in Arizona - we are now in a generation where you can take a desert and build a city. This will be a solution for the poor people - they will have a nice county, and we shall have our country and we shall live in peace." Metzger was quoted as telling the paper that the plan was new and he had not presented it to Prime Minister Ehud Olmert. "I have thought about it with some wise people only in the last two weeks, and I think it is a great idea - nobody spoke

about it before." He expressed his intent to discuss the matter with Olmert and anticipated that the idea would find popularity among Israelis. He prefaced his comments by pointing out that he could not advise on political matters as he is a religious leader in Israel, noting that according to the law he "cannot be involved in political situations." Muslims 'don't need a third place Metzger also called for Muslims to have the freedom to return to pray in mosques on condition that they do so peaceably: "We will welcome every Palestinian man who wants to pray in his mosque. Every Friday they can come, but with one condition, without violence. We have the same feeling about prayers, we want to give you respect but let

Supporters at the Mahrajaan 'Al Aqsa in Danger' held at Darul Islam Hall 3 February

us live and believe our land is the Holy Land and Jerusalem belongs to us. You have another place, Mecca and Medina, you don't need a third place." In the interview Metzger also described Jerusalem as "the capital city forever to the Jewish nation." He argued that Muslims have no connection to Jerusalem commenting that "behind the Kotel we have a mosque. But when they pray even though they are in our holiest place, they face Mecca. Their back is to Jerusalem. So you can see from only one sign that it does not belong to them. They have nothing - no connection." The tenure of Metzger, 54, appointed as chief rabbi in 2003 for a ten-year term, has been

marked by controversy. In 2006 Attorney General Menachem Mazuz called on him to resign his post in a report which alleged that he had accepted discounted hospitality at a number of Israeli hotels - a call that Metzger rejected. Metzger has also proposed the establishment of a "religious United Nations" comprised of religious leaders from around the world, and was named one of the 12 most influential international religious figures in a recent CBS documentary entitled In God's Name. Video of the interview is available by logging on: h t t p : / / w w w. y o u t u b e . c o m / watch?v=s8KR3dIAjM4&eurl =http://www.totallyjewish.com/

(l-r)Sh Ebrahim Gabriels, Sh Raed Salah, Sh Ihsaan Taliep and Mln Ihsaan Hendricks at the Mahrajaan 'Al Aqsa in Danger' held at Darul Islam Hall 3 February

Principals of the Independent Islamic High Schools receiv- Learners of the Darul Islam Primary School pledging support Learners of the Darul Islam Primary School pledging support ing a Thank-you gift from Sheikh Raed Salah at the youth, at the youth, Mahrajaan on 4 February at the Darul Islam Hall at the youth, Mahrajaan on 4 February at the Darul Islam Hall Mahrajaan on 4 February at the Darul Islam Hall

Sheikh Raed Salah at the youth mini Mahrajaan.

Learners welcome Sheikh Raed Salah at CT International Sheikh Raed Salah presents a gift to Dr Anwah Nagia from Altius Investment Holdings, who hosted the business breakAirport on 31 January fast, in aid of the Palestinian crises and Masjidul Aqsa

To view more photographs log onto: www.islamicmedia.co.za.