Contrary To The Belief That Organ Donation Is Prohibited In Islam, Many Muslims To Pledge Organ Donation In New Delhi
New Age Islam News Bureau
23 Aug 2024
·
Contrary To The Belief That Organ Donation Is
Prohibited In Islam, Many Muslims To Pledge OrganDonation In New Delhi
·
Putin Kisses Quran At Chechen Mosque As Ukraine
War Falters
·
Nadia Ahmad, AFlorida Delegate, Protested
During President Biden’s Speech With A Banner “Stop Arming Israel” Said Her
Party Turned Against Her
·
Backlash From Islamists Forces Pakistan Top
Court To Amend Ruling Guaranteeing Rights Of Persecuted Ahmadis
·
Sri Lanka Announces Visa-Free Entry To Saudi
Nationals From Oct. 1
-----
India
·
At 1st JPC Meet On Waqf Bill, All Oppn Parties
Object To Inclusion Of Non-Muslims In Waqf Boards
·
Ajmer Dargah Khadim Labels Waqf Bill 'Severe
Threat' To Fundamental Rights Of Muslims
·
Himanta Biswa Sarma Targets Muslim Reporter For
His Religious Identity During Press Meet
·
Jagan reiterates YSRCP's continued support for
Muslim welfare, vows to oppose Waqf Bill
·
Home Of Muslim Man Accused Of Mob Violence
Demolished In MP; Protesting Allegedly Inflammatory Remarks Against Prophet And
The Muslim Faith
-------
Europe
·
UK Muslim Lawmaker, Shockat Adam, Says He, His
Family Face Regular Racial Abuse, Verbal Attacks
·
Threat Of Terrorism Growing In Switzerland –
Spy Chief
·
Picture of police kneeling in front of Muslim
men is AI-generated
·
Man with firelighters at Islamic centre jailed
-------
North
America
·
Global Islamic Banking Software Market size is
set to grow by USD 3.28 billion from 2024-2028
·
Will Orange County’s Muslim voters support
Kamala Harris? For some, it’s complicated
·
Ron DeSantis rehashes Obama-era Muslim
reference
--------
Pakistan
12
Policemen Martyred In Bandits' Rocket Attack In Rahim Yar Khan
·
PTI leadership accused of having 'no
intentions' to secure Imran Khan's release
·
Dubai Islamic Bank invited to boost investments
·
PPP complains about unmet promises
·
Rs20bn allocated for Azm-i-Istehkam
·
Two children killed in Attock school van
shooting
·
Shehbaz launches Buna-Raast connectivity
project
--------
South
Asia
·
EU Chargé d’Affaires for Afghanistan Concludes
Mission, New Appointee Announced
·
Attack on army personnel: Army files case
against AL leaders, 3,200 unnamed
·
Cases against Hasina so far cross 50
·
Acting Interior Minister Meets with New Qatari
Chargé d’Affaires for Afghanistan
·
Afghanistan Eyes Increased Russian Investment
Amid Natural Resource Wealth
·
Bodies of five executed Afghans found in
Pakistan returned to families
·
Six killed, five injured in explosion in Eastern
Afghanistan
--------
Mideast
·
Israel Military Court Extends House Arrest Of
Soldiers Accused Of Palestinian Prisoner Abuse
·
Islamic Resistance In Lebanon Announces
Targeting Zionist Branit Site
·
Al-Aqsa Support Committee Identifies Marches'
Locations “With Gaza & Al-Aqsa... Jihad & Steadfastness Until Victory”
·
Demolition of historic Alexandria site sparks
public controversy
·
Gaza Strip faces uphill battle against polio
·
Proliferating evacuation orders sow chaos,
confusion in Gaza
·
US envoy tells UN: Gaza ceasefire deal ‘now is
in sight’
--------
Arab
World
·
Museum of Islamic Art Presents Landmark
Exhibition Surveying the Islamic Artistic Traditions of Morocco
·
7th Tanween creativity conference set on Oct.
31-Nov. 6 in Dhahran
·
Registration is on for 3rd Global AI Summit in
Riyadh, SDAIA announces
·
GEA announces theme, identity of Saudi National
Day
·
How a cutting-edge AI model developed in Saudi
Arabia is reshaping medical diagnostics
·
Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan sign deal to cooperate
on Islamic affairs
·
Fatwa symposium website to offer news, guidance
----------
Southeast
Asia
·
Zahid Seeks To Unite Malay NGOs Under ‘Rumpun
Melayu’ Banner With Islam At Core
·
Perak’s Sultan Nazrin warns Muslim community
against entrusting power to the corrupt
·
JETP: Norway Invests $25 Million in Indonesia's
Solar Power Development
·
Malaysia will never leave Palestinians to fight
alone - Ahmad Zahid
·
Matters raised by three wings discussed during
UMNO supreme council meeting tonight - Mohamad Hasan
·
PM Anwar refutes Muhyiddin’s 115 SDs claims,
says some statutory declarations signed a few times by same MPs
·
Zahid: Umno will not stop until ‘Bossku’ Najib
receives justice
--------
Africa
·
Sahel: Security Council Must Call Out
“Ukraine's Support For Terrorism” - Burkina, Mali And Niger
·
Kumuyi urges Christian, Muslim collaboration
for nation’s growth
·
Nigerian Army Investigates Alleged Killing Of
Civilians, 100 Cattle In Kaduna
·
Soldiers Didn’t Invade Churches In Anambra –
Army Clarifies
·
Edo Records 129 Homicide, Cult-Related Cases In
Two Months – Obaseki
·
Top PDP Chieftain Defects To APC In Kano
·
Fuel Hoarding: Swing Into Action Immediately –
Gov Adeleke Tells State Task Force
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
URL:
Contrary
To The Belief That Organ Donation Is Prohibited In Islam, Many Muslims To
Pledge OrganDonation In New Delhi
Aug 22,
2024
New
Delhi: Contrary to the common belief that organ donation is prohibited in
Islam, World Organisation of Religions & Knowledge (WORK) has brought
together over 400 people, many of them Muslims, to pledge organ donation. The
pledge will be taken at Sri Sathya Sai Auditorium on Lodhi Road on Saturday.
At a
press conference on Thursday, the organisation urged people to come forward for
organ donation so that many lives can be saved. The president of WORK, Allama
Syed Abdullah Tariq, emphasised that such events promote a broader
understanding and acceptance of this life-saving practice in the society.
At the
event, WORK will also honour 36 NGOs and individuals for their outstanding
contributions to the society and humanity by driving social change.
"To
celebrate its 37th foundation day, WORK is addressing one of the prevalent
myths in society regarding organ donation, raising awareness among the
public," said Mubashshir Hussain, state head of WORK's Delhi chapter. Such
initiatives are part of WORK's mission to eliminate enmity and hatred from the
world and spread the light of knowledge and the feelings of compassion, love
and harmony, he added.
The
organisation, which was set up in 1988, works across the country and in a few
other countries.
Source: indiatimes.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/breaking-myth-many-muslims-to-pledge-organ/articleshow/112720034.cms
--------
Putin kisses
Quran at Chechen mosque as Ukraine war falters
The New
Arab Staff
22
August, 2024
Putin
was presented with a copy of the Quran while visiting a mosque in Grozny with
Chechen leader Kadyrov (right) [Getty]
------------
A video
clip showing Russian President Vladimir Putin kissing a copy of the Quran has
gone viral on social media.
Putin
made this gesture as he visited the newly constructed Prophet Jesus Mosque in
the Chechen capital Grozny.
He was
accompanied by the controversial leader of the Chechen Republic, Ramzan
Kadyrov, who has played a key role in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
In the
video, Putin can be seen presented with a gold-encrusted copy of the Quran,
before kissing it and holding it up, while Kadyrov stands next to him.
The
Russian leader made his first trip to Chechnya in almost 13 years on Tuesday,
amid setbacks in the war on Ukraine, with Ukrainian forces continuing their
incursion into Russian territory around the Kursk area.
He was
reportedly there to encourage Chechen enlistment in the Russian armed forces as
the war in Ukraine continues to drag on.
The
Russian leader visited a special forces academy where soldiers were being
trained prior to deployment to Ukraine, and praised Chechen volunteers, saying
that as long as Russia had men like them it was "invincible".
"We
have been waiting for you for 13 years. And I know that you have a lot of
problems, issues that you manually manage, including our republic,"
Kadyrov told Putin while welcoming him.
Kadyrov
has headed a pro-Russian administration in Chechnya since 2007. The republic
had formerly tried to break away from Russian control, leading to two
devastating wars in the 1990s and early 2000s.
Kadyrov
has ruled it with an iron fist under Russian tutelage, suppressing dissent and
human rights as well as the separatist movement and leading Chechen fighters
into Ukraine to fight for Russia.
Pro-independence
Chechen fighters are believed to be fighting for Ukraine against Russia.
Putin’s
gesture towards the Quran is the latest in a series of moves designed to appeal
to Muslims.
Following
a series of Quran burnings in European countries and an attempt to do the same
in Russia, Putin said that anyone trying to burn the Quran on Russian territory
would face imprisonment and trial in the country’s Muslim-majority areas.
Source: newarab.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.newarab.com/news/putin-kisses-quran-chechen-mosque-ukraine-war-falters
---------
Nadia
Ahmad, AFlorida Delegate,Protested During President Biden’s Speech With A
Banner “Stop Arming Israel” Said Her Party Turned Against Her
August
22, 2024
Some
convention attendees partially blocked a banner protesting the war in Gaza
during President Joe Biden’s remarks. J. Scott Applewhite/AP
-------------
The
Florida delegate who unfurled a protest banner during President Joe Biden’s
speech that read “Stop Arming Israel” told NOTUS that she wasn’t allowed on the
convention floor the next night for the roll call vote, delegates’ most
important event of the week.
Nadia
Ahmad, a delegate from Florida who cast a present ballot, was hit on the head
with one of the hundreds of long ‘We Love Joe’ signs by a man behind her, a
video of the convention floor shows.
The next
morning, when Ahmad, a Muslim woman who wears a hijab, went to pick up her
access passes to the convention floor – as delegates are required to daily –
there was no floor badge available to her, she told NOTUS. She was relegated to
a separate section away from the Florida delegation for guests without floor
access, Ahmad said.
“I can’t
be on my floor for my floor delegation, it’s just basically like, OK go to the
back of the bus, go to the top of the stadium – you’re not welcome here,” Ahmad
told NOTUS Wednesday. She was one of three protesting delegates to hold the
banner, but the only one not able to access the floor Tuesday, she said. Her
access was reinstated the following day.
A DNC
official said the convention did not revoke her credential this week. Florida’s
Democratic Party leaders, who Ahmad believes made the decision, did not respond
to NOTUS’ request for comment.
In one
of the videos of the incident, people in the row behind the demonstrators tear
the sign away from the protesters. One of the demonstrators told NOTUS that
people behind them were cursing at them and, in a video posted on Facebook,
another demonstrator, Michigan delegate Liano Sharon, alleged it was a member
of the LiUNA union that ripped the sign down.
When
NOTUS contacted LiUNA president Brent Booker – who also gave a speech on the
DNC main stage Monday – by phone Wednesday, he said was not aware of someone
from LiUNA hitting Ahmad with a sign and said that he had “no comment.” The
union did not respond to an emailed request for comment about the incident.
Ahmad
filed a police report in Chicago Wednesday, and said she intends to press
charges against the person who hit her. The Council for Islamic-American
Relations has also called on police to charge the man who hit her. Ahmad is
also requesting the DNC revoke the credentials of the person who hit her.
Other
Muslims and Arab-American attendees echoed feeling ostracized at the
convention, a sentiment punctuated by a DNC decision Wednesday to not have a
Palestinian-American speaker on the DNC main stage.
“The
three people who are holding the banner are a Jew, a hijabi woman and an
immigrant. If the Democratic Convention is not our place, where is our place?”
Connecticut delegate Esam Boraey told NOTUS. “It seemed like it was so united,
the sentiment of everybody around us, ‘Get out of here, this is not your place,
you don’t belong here.’”
The
three delegates holding the banner Monday described a hostile environment all
around them, both from surrounding Florida delegates and those seated above
them.
“If
Democrats will punish you for your opinion, who are we?” Boraey said.
Their
demonstration was not affiliated with the Uncommitted National Movement, but
the delegates had formed a smaller group to organize a protest at the DNC
called Delegates Against Genocide.
In a
statement, the DNC indicated that peaceful protest was allowed at the
convention.
“The
right to peacefully protest is fundamental to American democracy and a core
belief of the Democratic Party. We expect all of our delegates and guests to
treat each other with respect,” DNC spokesperson Emily Soong said in a
statement.
Source: notus.org
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.notus.org/democrats/muslim-delegate-dnc-protest-charges-blocked-access
-------
Backlash
from Islamists forces Pakistan top court to amend ruling guaranteeing rights of
persecuted Ahmadis
23 Aug 2024
Supporters
of Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) party gather near the capital's "red
zone", to protest against Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa over the court's
ruling on the Ahmadiyya sect, in Islamabad on August 22, 2024. — AFP pic
------------
ISLAMABAD,
Aug 23 — A judge in Pakistan yesterday said the country’s Supreme Court would
amend a ruling that recognised some religious freedoms for the persecuted
Ahmadiyya minority, after weeks of widespread protests from far-right Islamist
groups.
The
Ahmadiyya sect, considered heretical by fundamentalist groups, has been
persecuted for decades in Pakistan, but threats and intimidation have risen in
recent years.
The
Supreme Court in a July ruling had said that while Ahmadis are declared
non-Muslim, they have the right to practise and preach their faith within their
homes, places of worship, and institutions, as long as they do not use Muslim
terms.
However,
the ruling sparked nationwide protests and calls from various religious
parties, scholars and the government to review the ruling.
“The
religious scholars had expressed their reservations on the Supreme Court
decision,” said Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, who was heading a three-member
bench.
“We have
accepted the federal government’s plea to clarify the decision and we are
omitting the controversial paragraph.”
“The
detailed verdict will be announced later,” he added.
The
protection for Ahmadis to practise their faith at home was included in a ruling
that gave bail to an Ahmadi accused of blasphemy.
The
backlash that followed included a bounty put on the head of the chief justice
by a leader of the radical Islamist party Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan, which
wields massive street power.
“It is
quite rare that the Supreme Court takes up an application when both appeal and
review have already been exhausted,” Osama Malik, an independent lawyer based
in Islamabad, told AFP.
“Diluting
the judgement has diminished the scant hope that had been offered to persecuted
minorities,” he added.
Roads
leading to Pakistan’s capital were restricted yesterday and educational
institutes were ordered to remain closed ahead of the case hearing.
Ahead of
the announcement, hundreds of supporters of Islamist parties gathered and
chanted slogans near the court.
“Qazi
Faez Isa has deeply hurt millions of Muslims with his verdict,” said
32-year-old protester Alyan Ahmed, a member of TLP.
“We are
prepared to go to any lengths if this decision is not reversed,” he added.
Ahmadis
consider themselves Muslims, and their faith is identical to mainstream Islam
in almost every way.
But
their belief that the movement’s founder Mirza Ghulam Ahmad was the “mahdi” or
messiah has marked them to many as blasphemous unbelievers, particularly in
Pakistan.
There
are around 500,000 Amadis in Pakistan according to their community leadership.
The
constitution has branded them non-Muslims since 1974, and a 1984 law forbids
them from claiming their faith as Islamic or openly practising Islamic rituals.
— AFP
Source: malaymail.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.malaymail.com/news/world/2024/08/23/backlash-from-islamists-forces-pakistan-top-court-to-amend-ruling-guaranteeing-rights-of-persecuted-ahmadis/147911
------
Sri
Lanka announces visa-free entry to Saudi nationals from Oct. 1
August
22, 2024
Saudi
foreign minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan meets with Iraq’s Prime Minister
Mohammed Shia al-Sudani at the Presidential Palace in Baghdad. (SPA
-----------
RIYADH:
Sri Lanka’s government will allow visa-free entry for Saudi Arabia citizens
from Oct. 1, the Adviser to the Ministry of Tourism Harin Fernando was reported
as saying on Thursday.
Ambassador
of Sri Lanka to Saudi Arabia Ameer Ajwad told Arab News: “The landmark decision
to provide visa-free access to Sri Lanka for Saudi citizens will serve as a
catalyst to boost tourism and enhance business exchanges between Sri Lanka and
Saudi Arabia.”
Ajwad
added that it would enhance “people-to people contacts” and comes as the two
nations celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations this year.
In its
announcement on Thursday, the Sri Lanka government granted visa-free access to
citizens from 35 countries.
They
include the UK, China, US, India, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Spain,
Australia, Denmark, Poland, Kazakhstan, UAE, Nepal, Indonesia, Russia and
Thailand.
The list
includes Malaysia, Japan, France, Canada, Czech Republic, Italy, Switzerland,
Austria, Israel, Belarus, Iran, Sweden, South Korea, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and
New Zealand.
Saudi
Arabia is the third-largest source of tourists for Sri Lanka, according to
statistics released in July by the latter’s tourism development authority.
The Sri
Lanka Embassy has helped promote the island nation as a destination, including
showcasing its tourism products at the Riyadh Travel Fair 2024 from May 27 to
29.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2568403/saudi-arabia
--------
India
At 1st
JPC Meet On Waqf Bill, All Oppn Parties Object To Inclusion Of Non-Muslims In
Waqf Boards
NEELAM
PANDEY and RISHA CHITLANGIA
22 August,
2024
New
Delhi: The proposed inclusion of non-Muslim members in state waqf boards and
the Central Waqf Council was opposed by all opposition parties during the first
meeting of the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill
Thursday, ThePrint has learnt.
The
minority affairs ministry briefed the 31-member committee about the amendments
proposed in the Bill, which was tabled in Parliament earlier this month. The
Bill has proposed sweeping changes to the Waqf Act of 1995.
Sources
said opposition MPs raised a number of objections regarding the proposed
provisions, such as the inclusion of non-Muslim members, giving more powers to
district collectors, among others. BJP ally Janata Dal (United), during the
meeting, said it is holding consultations with the Muslim community, which has
expressed reservations over some aspects of the Bill, and that it will discuss
these at the next meeting, a JPC member said.
On some
issues, especially the inclusion of non-Muslim members, there was severe
disagreement, but members were assured that the government would respond to all
their queries, it is learnt.
Sources
said that MPs from the Aam Aadmi Party, the Trinamool Congress, the All India
Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb
Thackeray) and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) questioned the need and
logic behind the proposal to include non-Muslim members in state waqf boards
and the Central Waqf Council.
A JPC
member, requesting anonymity, said that many members questioned the
government’s intent and alleged that the Bill has provisions that are
“unconstitutional” and “not in the interests” of the Muslim community.
“This
was countered by the BJP members and its allies too,” the JPC member said.
The
issue of a practicing Muslim was also raised during the meeting, it is learnt.
According to the proposed Bill, only a Muslim who has been practicing the
religion for the last five years can make a waqf.
The Bill
has also proposed a centralised system for the registration of waqf properties
and empowering district collectors. The amendments propose that the district
collector will be the arbiter in case of a dispute over waqf land. The
collector will also be responsible for carrying out surveys of waqf properties,
which, under the current Act, is done by the Survey Commission.
Opposition
MPs, it is learnt, questioned the idea behind granting more powers to the
collectors. “The opposition MPs questioned the logic and motive behind the move
of having non-Muslim members in the committee which oversees religious
properties. Some asked whether in Hindu temples it is allowed and the answer
obviously is no,” said a source.
While
pushing for the amendments, the Modi government said they are necessary to
bring transparency in the functioning of waqf boards.
“No one
is against transparency and in ensuring that the system works better, but the
motive of the government is questionable and shows bias,” the source quoted
above added.
Another
source said that a number of members felt that the government officials who
attended the meeting had not come prepared to answer their queries.
The
31-member committee was formed by the Lok Sabha to study the contentious Bill
that drew sharp protests from opposition parties and Muslim organisations
across the country.
YSRCP
leader Vijaysai Reddy, a Rajya Sabha MP and a member of the JPC, posted on X
that the Bill was not acceptable in its current form, and various stakeholders
have concerns. He stated that he opposed the Bill at the meeting Thursday, in
line with his party’s stand and the decision of party chief YS Jagan Mohan
Reddy.
He
further wrote: “As a member of JPC, I would like to hear from all stakeholders
and be your voice in the committee. If there are any concerns, or objections
that you have, then you can email me…I will put forth the concerns before the
committee by way of a “dissenting note” which will form part of a permanent
record in the annals of history.”
AAP’s
Sanjay Singh, in a video message on X, said the Bill is against Article 26 of
the Constitution that ensures freedom to manage religious affairs. “The Modi
government wanted to capture the land of farmers across the country by bringing
black laws, but failed. It then gave 13,000 acres of Army land to Adani in
Ayodhya, now it wants to capture waqf land and give it to Adani. It next wants
to take over the land of gurdwara, temple and church…”
The Waqf
(Amendment) Bill, also proposes to rename the present Act to ‘Unified Waqf
Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act’. A JPC member also
wanted to know the reasons behind the proposed renaming.
Source: theprint.in
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://theprint.in/politics/at-1st-jpc-meet-on-waqf-bill-all-oppn-parties-object-to-inclusion-of-non-muslims-in-waqf-boards/2234188/
------
Ajmer
Dargah khadim labels Waqf bill 'severe threat' to fundamental rights of Muslims
PTI
22 August 2024
Jaipur:
Ajmer Sharif Dargah hereditary cleric Syed Sarwar Chishti on Thursday labelled
the Waqf (Amendment) Bill a "severe threat" to the fundamental rights
of Muslims to manage their religious affairs and protect their religious
properties.
Chishti,
the hereditary khadim (cleric) of Ajmer Sharif Dargah and secretary of the
Anjuman Moinia Fakria Khuddam-E-Khawaja (body of khadims), described the Bill
as "a sheer interference in the religious matters of Muslims" and
accused the government of seeking to "acquire control over properties
under Waqf".
The Bill
is the first major initiative from the BJP-led NDA government aimed at
reforming the registration process for Waqf properties through a centralised
portal.
It
proposes several reforms, including establishing a Central Waqf Council
alongside state Waqf boards with representation for Muslim women and non-Muslim
representatives.
During a
press conference, Chishti expressed deep concern over the provision allowing
the appointment of non-Muslims in Waqf boards.
"Waqf
boards are religious bodies governed by Islamic principles and the inclusion of
non-Muslim members and leadership would compromise the religious integrity and
autonomy of these institutions," he said.
He said
the Anjuman warned that this could result in genuine Waqf properties becoming
disputed, disrupting their religious and charitable practices.
Chishti
also dismissed as "BJP sympathisers" Muslim bodies that extended
support to the Bill.
He
termed the Bill's supporters as "Mir Jafars" who backed
"anti-Muslim Bills" such as the law against triple talaq and the
Citizenship (Amendment) Act.
He also
warned that the community would "treat with them accordingly".
Regarding
the Joint Parliamentary Committee formed to review the Bill, Chishti said,
"The Muslim community has faith only in All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul
Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi to fight against it. Our faith in
other parties such as the Congress diminished long ago in matters related to
our faith."
The
31-member committee has been tasked by the Lok Sabha to scrutinise the
contentious Bill, which has drawn protests from the opposition parties and
Muslim organisations.
A
contentious provision of the Bill is the proposal to designate the district
collector as the primary authority in determining whether a property is classified
as Waqf or government land.
The Bill
was introduced in the Lok Sabha on August 8 and referred to a Joint Committee
of Parliament after a heated debate, with the government asserting that the
proposed law did not intend to interfere with the functioning of mosques and
the opposition claiming it targeted Muslims and an attack on the Constitution.
Source: deccanherald.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.deccanherald.com/india/rajasthan/ajmer-dargah-khadim-labels-waqf-bill-severe-threat-to-fundamental-rights-of-muslims-3160761
--------
Himanta
Biswa Sarma targets Muslim reporter for his religious identity during press
meet
Scroll
Staff
Assam
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday targeted a reporter for his
Muslim identity after he asked the Bharatiya Janata Party leader about hills
allegedly being cut in Mandakata in the politician’s Jalukbari Assembly
constituency.
Sarma
was speaking to reporters about his allegations from earlier this month that
Mahbubul Hoque, the chancellor of the University of Science and Technology
Meghalaya, was responsible for flash floods in Guwahati because of
deforestation and hill-cutting carried out to build the institution’s campus.
Hoque, a
Bengali Muslim from Assam, owns the Education Research and Development
Foundation, which runs the university. Several experts and Guwahati residents
have said that there is no basis for the BJP leader’s claim that the university
was behind the floods in Guwahati.
It was
in this context that the journalist on Wednesday asked Sarma about hills being
cut in his constituency. Responding to the query, the chief minister asked:
“Why are you equating USTM [University of Science and Technology Meghalaya] and
Mandakata? Why are you all trying so hard to save USTM?”
Sarma
then asked the reporter his name.
The
journalist, who works at a local news website, introduced himself as Shah Alam.
To this,
Sarma said: “You people Shah Alam and USTM’s Mahbubul Hoque, the way you all
have connected things, will we even survive? I would like to ask Shah Alam if
we will even survive in Assam for long?”
The
Journalist Association For Assam said in a statement on Thursday that Sarma’s
behaviour towards Alam was unacceptable. The press body appealed to the chief
minister not to repeat such comments.
The
Gauhati Press Club also expressed concern over increasing instances of
“disparaging responses” by political leaders when journalists ask them
questions.
“In the
latest case, the honorable chief minister pulled the religious identity of a
journalist into context without any apparent relevance during a press meet on
August 21,” it said in a statement on Thursday. “The Gauhati Press Club
expresses deep concern at such an incident.”
The
press body urged political leaders to ensure that such instances are not
repeated and show dignity to their position as well as the role of the media.
During
the press meet on Wednesday, Sarma also said that the state government was
discussing the possibility of not taking students who graduate from the
University of Science and Technology Meghalaya for posts advertised by the
Assam government, reported The Indian Express.
“Our
students from Guwahati and Dibrugarh University are suffering because of this,”
Sarma told reporters according to The Indian Express. “That’s why I have asked
the legal department to examine this – that if students from USTM want a job in
Assam, they will have to give another exam.”
He
added: “Not just USTM but from West Bengal, Karnataka, Maharashtra, all outside
universities. But my anger against USTM is a little more. Because they are
throwing water at us.”
Source: scroll.in
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://scroll.in/latest/1072317/himanta-biswa-sarma-targets-muslim-reporter-for-his-religious-identity-during-press-interaction
--------
Jagan
reiterates YSRCP's continued support for Muslim welfare, vows to oppose Waqf
Bill
SNV
Sudhir
22August
2024
Hyderabad:
Former Andhra Pradesh chief minister and YSRCP president Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy
Thursday pledged his continued support for the Muslim minorities welfare and
vowed to oppose the Waqf Bill, which has raised concerns about land
encroachment issues.
He held
a meeting with Muslim minorities at his residence in Tadepalli on Thursday.
Speaking on the occasion, Jagan said that the YSRCP has always focused on
addressing the issues of Muslim minorities. He emphasized that the party has
consistently worked for their welfare and development and will continue to
support them. He assured that the concerns raised about the Waqf Bill would be
strongly represented by the party's MPs in Parliament. He also mentioned that
party's Rajya Sabha member V Vijayasai Reddy, a member of the Joint
Parliamentary Committee, would take the lead in presenting their objections in
Parliament.
Representatives
of Muslim organizations expressed their concerns, stating that over 70 per cent
of Waqf lands are currently encroached upon. They stated that the new
provisions in the proposed Waqf Bill aim to prevent these lands from being
reclaimed by the rightful beneficiaries. The representatives further mentioned
that the new Wakf Bill is designed in a way that could weaken the entire
system. They appreciated the YSRCP's opposition to the Bill and noted that it
was only due to the party's stance that the Bill was referred to the JPC by the
union government.
Former
MLA from Kurnool, Hafeez Khan highlighted the steps taken by the Jagan-led
government for the protection of Waqf lands. He explained that making the Waqf
Board stronger and putting all the land details online is a big development. He
also mentioned that GO No 60 was issued for the first time in the country to
stop Wakf land encroachment.
Source: deccanherald.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.deccanherald.com/india/andhra-pradesh/jagan-reiterates-ysrcps-continued-support-for-muslim-welfare-vows-to-oppose-waqf-bill-3160752
---------
Home Of
Muslim Man Accused Of Mob Violence Demolished In MP; Protesting Allegedly
Inflammatory Remarks Against Prophet And The Muslim Faith
Scroll
Staff
23August 2024
A day
after four police officers were injured in a mob attack on a police station in
Madhya Pradesh’s Chhatarpur, district authorities on Thursday bulldozed the
home of a Muslim man who has been accused of involvement in the violence,
reported The Hindu.
The mob
attack reportedly occurred when a large crowd was stopped from entering the
police station to file a complaint against a Hindu religious leader named
Ramgiri Maharaj.
The man
whose home was demolished on Thursday has been identified as Haji Shehzad Ali.
Superintendent
of Police (City) Aman Mishra told The Hindu that more than 100 locations had
been raided and over 50 suspects detained in connection with the mob attack on
the Kotwali police station. Superintendent of Police Agam Jain said 150 persons
were booked in the case.
The
crowd was protesting allegedly inflammatory remarks that Ramgiri made against
Prophet Mohammad and the Muslim faith while speaking at a seven-day-long event
in Nashik’s Sinnar taluka last week.
A clip
of the religious leader making the remarks was widely circulated online this
week.
“Members
of a particular community came to give a memorandum at the Kotwali police
station,” Jain said in a statement. “They were assured that time but some
miscreants turned to stone-pelting which was brought under control by the
police.”
Videos
of the incident show the police firing tear gas shells to disperse the mob,
reported The Hindu.
Ramgiri
is reportedly facing several police complaints in Maharashtra, including in
Thane and Pune districts, for allegedly inflammatory speech.
Among
other charges, the religious leader has been booked for uttering words with
intent to wound religious feelings, under Section 302 of the Bharatiya Nyaya
Sanhita, and provocation with intent to cause riot under Section 192.
Source: scroll.in
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https://scroll.in/latest/1072341/house-of-muslim-man-accused-of-mob-violence-demolished-in-madhya-pradesh
--------
Europe
UK
Muslim Lawmaker, Shockat Adam, Says He, His Family Face Regular Racial Abuse,
Verbal Attacks
22 August 2024
Pro-Palestinian
independent British lawmaker Shockat Adam says he and his family face regular
racial abuse and verbal attacks, as the United Kingdom is reeling from the
worst racially-fueled Islamophobic insurgency.
Adam,
51, defeated Jon Ashworth, the shadow cabinet minister for Labour, in the
Leicester South constituency of the East Midlands during the UK's general
election held early last month, declaring “this is for Gaza” as he won the seat
in the parliament.
In an
interview with the UK-based news website Middle East Eye published on Thursday,
Adam revealed he and his family face regular racial abuse and verbal attacks,
explaining that he started facing significant racial abuse during the general
election campaign.
“People
from my team were often racially abused when they knocked on doors or polling
day," the independent politician said.
His son
was greeted with the P-word while standing outside a polling station, Adam
said.
Adam
noted that the abuse has persisted even after the vote. “I have faced a torrent
of abuse online and in real life, as have people in my family.”
Leicester
South has long been a stronghold for the Labour party, with only a short
interruption from the Liberal Democrats in 2004 and 2005. Since 1987, the
constituency in the East Midlands has consistently elected Labour MPs.
But
Adam, a local independent with no previous involvement in politics, changed the
game after unseating Ashworth, the shadow cabinet minister for Labour, who had
been serving as a Labour party lawmaker since 2011, elected four times into the
role.
The
businessman-turned-politician campaigned on various local issues as well as on
Israel, addressing concerns many had about the Labour party’s initial backing
of Israel’s blockade and bombardment of the Gaza Strip.
Adam was
born in Malawi into a Muslim family of Gujarati descent and grew up in
Leicester.
The
worst far-right fascist anti-immigration riots in decades engulfed the UK from
July 30 to August 5, with mobs attacking mosques, attempting to torch hotels
housing migrants and hurling bricks at police officers.
The
rioting was triggered by social media users falsely claiming the suspect in the
murders of three little girls in a stabbing attack in the Northwest English
seaside town of Southport was a Muslim asylum seeker.
The
far-right gatherings ostensibly started as anti-immigration marches, organized
on social media platforms like X and on WhatsApp and Telegram groups. They
quickly turned disorderly and violent.
Protesters
set ablaze two Holiday Inn hotels, in the town of Rotherham, northern England,
and in Tamworth, in the Midlands, central England, that were believed to be
housing asylum seekers awaiting a decision on their claims.
Source: presstv.ir
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2024/08/22/731879/UK-Shockat-Adam-Muslim-MP-election-racial-abuse-Gaza
-------
Threat
of terrorism growing in Switzerland – spy chief
22 Aug,
2024
The
threat of Islamic terrorism in Switzerland is on the rise and minors are
increasingly joining their ranks, the head of the Swiss Federal Intelligence
Service, Christian Dussey, has warned.
There
are significantly more radicalized young people in Switzerland due to a
propaganda campaign by jihadist group Islamic State (IS, formerly ISIS), Dussey
told daily newspaper Tages-Anzeiger in an interview published on Thursday.
“We have
noticed that the problem has become more acute in recent months,” he said. “In
Switzerland, we have an above-average number of cases of radicalized young
people compared to other European countries,” according to the Intelligence
Service chief.
He noted
that in the first six months of this year, about 30 people have been arrested
in Europe on suspicion of planning terrorist attacks, more than the total for
the whole of 2023. Several terrorism-related arrests have been made in the past
few weeks alone, Dussey added.
The most
likely potential attack in Switzerland would be “that of an act of violence
perpetrated by an isolated individual inspired by jihadism,” the spy chief
said, citing as an example the stabbing of an Orthodox Jew by a 15-year-old
suspect in Zurich in March. The victim sustained serious injuries. Prior to
that attack the teenager had appeared in a video, expressing solidarity with
Islamic State.
Earlier
this month, three concerts by US pop mega-star Taylor Swift were canceled in
neighboring Austria after police arrested two suspects for allegedly planning
terrorist attacks at the shows. Austrian security officials said a 19-year-old,
who had previously pledged allegiance to IS, was planning to kill “a large crowd
of people” using explosives and knives.
READ
MORE: Major EU city cancels Taylor Swift concerts over ISIS attack fears
Also in
August, two religious figures were detained in Russia for alleged involvement
in recruiting fighters for IS. The country’s interior ministry also reported an
alarming surge in crimes linked with terrorism and extremism in the first half
of this year.
Source: rt.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.rt.com/news/602943-swiss-terror-threat-rising/
--------
Picture
of police kneeling in front of Muslim men is AI-generated
22
AUGUST 2024
A
picture appearing to show a number of police officers kneeling as though in
prayer in front of a group of men in Islamic dress has been shared widely on
Threads.
What the
post fails to mention, however, is that the image is AI-generated. Some of the
comments in the thread appear to indicate that people believe it to be genuine.
The same
picture has also been shared widely on X (formerly Twitter), in the aftermath
of violent disorder which took place across England and Northern Ireland
following the fatal stabbing of three children in Southport on 29 July.
Very
quickly an incorrect name, “Ali Al-Shakati”, spread online, alongside claims he
had recently come to the UK on a small boat, or was Muslim or Syrian.
In fact,
the teenager charged in connection with the attack, Axel Muganwa Rudakubana,
was born in Cardiff to parents from Rwanda.
Aside
from the fact that we could find no evidence of the picture shared online being
published by a credible source, there are several indications that the photo is
AI-generated.
While
the rendering is more realistic than we have seen in other AI-generated images,
one clue it is not genuine is that the police officer in the front-right of the
image appears to have an extremely long left foot and unusual body proportions.
The
police officer in the front-left of the image’s left leg is also bent in a
strange position and appears to be disconnected from his torso. This is
particularly obvious if you increase the brightness of the image, as below.
Some
versions of the image are less blurry and cropped, which more clearly exposes
the fact it is AI-generated.
In the
un-cropped version it is possible to see some irregularities in the facial
features of the men standing, such as distorted noses, eyes and mouths, and the
strange placement of the police officer’s leg mentioned above is more clearly
visible as well as an additional unconnected foot.
This
wider image shows a man standing in religious dress on the far right of the
group and a police officer standing on the far left of the group. Both have
their hands clasped in front of them but there are clear irregularities with
the placement of their fingers—a well known indicator that the image may be
AI-generated.
As we
have seen over the course of the recent violent disorder, misinformation like
this can stoke tensions and sow confusion in the midst of a quickly-developing
news story.
With
this in mind it’s important to make sure you check something is genuine before
you share it on social media. To find out more about how to spot AI-generated
images you can read our guide.
Although
some claims we see online can seem very obviously false, we sometimes still
check them because it’s not always clear to everyone that this is the case.
We’ve written a blog explaining why we do this, which you can read here.
Source: fullfact.org
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://fullfact.org/online/police-kneeling-picture-AI/
--------
Man with
firelighters at Islamic centre jailed
Katie
Dickinson
23
AUGUST 2024
A judge
has told a man found with firelighters in his pocket outside an Islamic centre
in North Yorkshire the "consequences could have been fatal" had he
lit a fire.
James
Martin, 18, was arrested for a breach of the peace after swearing and shouting,
while people inside the centre, on Roscoe Street in Scarborough, were at prayer
on 8 August at 22:00 BST.
Martin
pleaded guilty to charges of racially or religiously aggravated harassment,
having an article with intent to destroy or damage property, and obstructing or
resisting a constable in the execution of their duty.
Judge
Sean Morris, the Recorder of York, jailed him for 26 months at York Crown
Court.
He told
Martin he had "disgraced" the flag he was carrying at the time of his
offending.
"This
calls for an immediate prison sentence - there has to be an element of
deterrence so other young men aged 18, in work and with no previous
convictions, realise that actions have consequences," Judge Morris said.
"Whether
online or on the street, the courts will keep the peace by deterring others
from such action."
'Lose
everything'
The
court heard a police operation had been in force in the seaside town that day
due to fears of disorder.
It was
stood down but officers stayed in the area of Roscoe Street "just in
case," it was said.
Martin
was one of four people demonstrating in the area and "continued to exhibit
disruptive behaviour" after his arrest, the court heard.
Officers
also found a clear plastic bag of firelighters in his pocket.
Judge
Morris said social media that day had been "alive with extremist calls for
setting fire to places connected with Islam" and that if Martin had
started a fire, "the consequences could have been fatal".
Martin,
who has no previous convictions, will lose an apprenticeship in bricklaying
because of his actions.
He was
told he was going to "lose everything because of one night of stupid
behaviour".
Listen
to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest
episode of Look North or tell us a story you think we should be covering here.
Source: bbc.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cwy3l91ew5go
--------
North
America
Global
Islamic Banking Software Market size is set to grow by USD 3.28 billion from
2024-2028
Aug 22,
2024
NEW
YORK, Aug. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The global Islamic banking software market
size is estimated to grow by USD 3.28 billion from 2024-2028, according to
Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 11.53%
during the forecast period. Issue of smart cards by islamic banks is
driving market growth, with a trend towards adoption of blockchain technology.
However, lack of expertise, awareness and training in islamic banking
software poses a challenge. Key market
players include AutoSoft Dynamics Pvt. Ltd., Azentio Software Pvt. Ltd., Bank
Albilad, Bank Alfalah Islamic Banking, BML Istisharat SAL, Codebase
Technologies FZE, Craft Silicon Ltd., First Abu Dhabi Bank PJSC, ICS Financial
Systems Ltd., INFOPRO Sdn Bhd, Infosys Ltd., International Turnkey Systems
Group, Millennium Information Solution Ltd., Nucleus Software Exports Ltd.,
Oracle Corp., Sopra Steria Group SA, Tata Consultancy Services Ltd., Temenos
AG, and Virmati Infotech Pvt. Ltd..
The
Islamic banking industry is experiencing digital transformation, driven by the
adoption of blockchain technology, IoT, and supply chain analytics. This
technological shift is particularly noticeable in industry verticals like BFSI
and manufacturing. Blockchain enables real-time tracking of end-to-end
transactions, using technologies like Smart Contracts for seamless online
transactions. Cloud computing solutions facilitate IoT implementation, allowing
manufacturers to connect sensors and devices, reducing per-person access costs,
and fostering collaboration with suppliers and customers. The flexibility and
rapidly changing technology landscape are expected to increase demand for
hosted and cloud-based solutions in the Islamic banking software market.
The
Islamic banking software market is experiencing significant trends in the
banking industry. With industry saturation, fintech upheaval, and increasing
regulatory initiatives, Islamic banks and financial institutions are seeking
efficient and compliant solutions for their operations. On-premises and
cloud-based solutions are popular choices, with hybrid options also gaining
traction. Islamic finance institutions catering to large enterprises, mid-sized
companies, retail sector, SMEs, and large corporations are integrating smart
cards, sukuk issuances, and automation into their processes. Fintech companies
and software providers are offering cloud-based solutions, incorporating
artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, and cloud computing. Sharia
compliance, risk administration, analytics and reporting, asset administration,
and cellular banking are key features in demand. Integration skills, data
protection, cybersecurity, sustainability, and moral investing are essential
considerations. Fintech partnerships are crucial for enhancing services,
ensuring regulatory compliance, and offering innovative solutions such as automation,
risk management, and remittances.
Market
Challenges
The
integration of advanced IT products and services into Islamic banking systems
is a complex process for many financial institutions. While the adoption of new
technology can enhance customer service and product offerings, it necessitates
specialized training for banking staff. Providing this training is a
significant challenge due to the time, cost, and resources required. Failure to
adequately train staff may result in misaligned products and a damaged brand
image. Moreover, the integration of various systems can be problematic due to
the lack of technical expertise within banking firms. This deficiency in
knowledge and awareness may hinder the growth of the global Islamic banking
software market during the forecast period.
The
Islamic banking software market faces several challenges in the dynamic banking
industry. Industry saturation poses competition among software providers to
offer innovative solutions to Islamic banks, large enterprises, mid-sized
companies, and SMEs. Fintech upheaval brings disruption through fintech
companies, pushing for cloud-based solutions over traditional on-premises
systems. Islamic finance institutions grapple with automating operations,
including smart cards, sukuk issuances, and Sharia compliance, while adapting
to regulatory initiatives. Technological advancements like artificial
intelligence, blockchain technology, and cloud computing require integration
skills. Islamic banks must balance the need for data protection and
cybersecurity with the benefits of these technologies. Sustainability and moral
investing are also growing concerns. Partnerships with fintech companies and
software providers are essential for remaining competitive. Asset
administration, risk administration, analytics and reporting, and automation
are key areas for improvement. Additionally, retail sector, wealth management,
insurance, asset management, remittances, and cellular banking require
specialized solutions.
Segment
Overview
This
islamic banking software market report extensively covers market segmentation
by
Application
1.1
Retail
1.2
Corporate
1.3
Others
Deployment
2.1
On-premises
2.2
Cloud
Geography
3.1
Middle East and Africa
3.2 APAC
3.3
Europe
3.4
North America
3.5
South America
1.1
Retail- The Islamic banking software
market is growing steadily due to the increasing demand for Shariah-compliant
financial solutions. Banks and financial institutions are investing in advanced
software to manage their Islamic banking operations efficiently. These
solutions facilitate the implementation of Islamic financing and banking
principles, such as profit and loss sharing, riba-free transactions, and
ethical investment. The software streamlines processes, enhances transparency,
and ensures regulatory compliance, making it an essential tool for Islamic
financial institutions.
For more
information on market segmentation with geographical analysis including
forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2017-2021) - Download a Sample Report
Research
Analysis
The
Islamic banking software market is witnessing significant growth due to the
increasing demand for Sharia-compliant financial solutions. This market caters
to the unique needs of financial institutions offering Islamic banking
operations, which differ from conventional banking in their rejection of
interest-based financing and adoption of profit-and-loss sharing, asset-backed
financing, and sukuk issuances. Automation, risk administration, analytics, and
reporting are crucial components of Islamic banking software, enabling
efficient management of transactions and regulatory compliance. Smart cards,
cellular banking, and fintech partnerships expand accessibility to Islamic
finance. Cloud-based solutions, artificial intelligence, blockchain technology,
and cloud computing are transforming the industry, offering advanced features
and enhanced security. Regulatory initiatives worldwide are driving the
adoption of these technologies, ensuring transparency and compliance with
Islamic finance principles. Software providers and fintech companies are at the
forefront of this innovation, catering to the retail sector and asset
administration needs of Islamic financial institutions.
Market
Research Overview
The
Islamic Banking Software Market is witnessing significant growth due to the
increasing demand for Sharia-compliant financial solutions. This market caters
to the unique needs of Islamic banks and financial institutions, enabling them
to automate their operations while adhering to the principles of Islamic
finance, which prohibits the collection and payment of interest. Key features
of Islamic banking software include asset-backed financing, risk
administration, analytics and reporting, asset administration, cellular
banking, and integration skills. The market is also witnessing trends such as
fintech partnerships, data protection, cybersecurity, sustainability, and moral
investing. The market is saturated with on-premises, cloud-based, and hybrid
solutions catering to various segments such as Islamic banks, large
enterprises, mid-sized companies, retail sector, SMEs, large corporations,
wealth management, insurance, asset management, and remittances. Moreover, the
market is witnessing the adoption of advanced technologies such as artificial
intelligence, blockchain technology, cloud computing, and regulatory
initiatives. Fintech companies and software providers are also playing a
crucial role in the growth of the market. Islamic banking operations are
increasingly relying on cloud-based solutions for their efficiency and
cost-effectiveness. Sukuk issuances, smart cards, and other digital initiatives
are also driving the growth of the market. However, the market faces challenges
such as industry saturation and fintech upheaval, which require continuous
innovation and adaptation.
Table of
Contents:
1
Executive Summary
2 Market
Landscape
3 Market
Sizing
4
Historic Market Size
5 Five
Forces Analysis
6 Market
Segmentation
Application
Retail
Corporate
Others
Deployment
On-premises
Cloud
Geography
Middle
East And Africa
APAC
Europe
North
America
South
America
7
Customer Landscape
8
Geographic Landscape
9
Drivers, Challenges, and Trends
10
Company Landscape
11
Company Analysis
12
Appendix
About
Technavio
Technavio
is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research
and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights
to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective
strategies to optimize their market positions.
With
over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than
17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50
countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including
more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on
Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market
insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess
their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.\
Source: prnewswire.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/islamic-banking-software-market-size-is-set-to-grow-by-usd-3-28-billion-from-2024-2028--issue-of-smart-cards-by-islamic-banks-boost-the-market-ai-role-and-impact-technavio-302228609.html
-------
Will
Orange County’s Muslim voters support Kamala Harris? For some, it’s complicated
By HANNA
KANG
August
22, 2024
While
enthusiasm and unity were headliners within the walls of Chicago’s United
Center, where the Democratic National Convention has been held this week, those
emotions, especially the last one, were not felt by Mirvette Judeh.
Judeh, a
central committee member of the Democratic Party of Orange County, said she
felt dissonance on the ground in the Windy City. While the DNC seemed
laser-focused on defeating former President Donald Trump, almost “throwing the
threat of another Trump presidency” in her face, she said, nothing concrete was
done to reestablish trust with Arab, Muslim and communities in solidarity with
Palestine, including the thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters in Chicago.
“As a
Palestinian, a Muslim and a Democrat, the fear of a Trump presidency isn’t
enough of a reason anymore to scare my community into voting for (Harris) since
it is under (Joe) Biden’s presidency I witnessed the genocide and ethnic
cleansing of my people,” she said. “While it would be a great honor to witness
the first woman president, not at the cost of my people.”
Judeh
traveled to the DNC in her role as the southern vice chair of the Arab American
Caucus of the state Democratic Party. But she also participated in protests
Monday, where signs carried the messages: “We’re trying to help you Kamala” and
“Abandon Harris ’24” and “Democrats fund the genocide of Palestinians.” On
Tuesday, multiple protesters clashed with police and an estimated 72 were
arrested during a demonstration that started outside the Israeli consulate.
Local
communities across the U.S. have been roiled by the Israel-Hamas war, which
started when Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel on Oct. 7, killing civilians
and taking hostages. The death toll in Gaza since Oct. 7, after Israel launched
a counter-offensive, has surpassed 40,000, according to officials in Gaza.
She said
she was happy to see President Joe Biden drop out of the race in July — on her
birthday, no less — and even happier when Harris didn’t show up to a joint
meeting of Congress in July for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s
address. Harris, however, privately met with Netanyahu the following day.
Judeh
has supported Harris in past elections, including during her campaign for U.S.
Senate. Judeh said this November, when it comes to the presidential contest,
her vote will either go toward Harris or a third-party candidate.
She’s
devastated by the Biden administration’s recent approval of more than $20
billion in weapons sales to Israel, Judeh said, and wants to see an arms
embargo on Israel. The Democratic Party platform, adopted Monday, doesn’t
include such an arms embargo.
Judeh
isn’t alone in imploring the administration to end the war and stop sending
military aid to Israel. According to some national surveys, most U.S. Muslims
say Biden is favoring Israel too much, and that the Israel-Hamas war is the No.
1 issue across the board for Muslim voters in three swing states, Georgia, Pennsylvania
and Michigan.
That
sentiment is also playing out in Orange County, where a large Muslim community
resides. Here, Muslim voters appear somewhat appreciative of Harris’ background
but are troubled about her stance on the situation in Gaza. While Harris has
called for a cease-fire, she has not signaled support for an arms embargo on
Israel.
Take
Irvine Mayor Farrah Khan. She said she recognizes the significance of Harris’
presidential bid and what it means for many voters of color and women. In 2020,
Khan made history when she became the first woman of color elected Irvine’s
mayor and the first Muslim woman to helm a large U.S. city.
“It’s
exciting to see a Black and South Asian woman running for president,” Khan, a
Pakistani American, said. “I’m at the point where I’m excited that we’ve got
this amazing opportunity.”
But
unless Harris commits to stop funding weapons to Israel and other foreign
countries, Khan said she won’t support her in November.
“Palestinian
bodies are being delivered in bags. That’s unimaginable and has to stop,” she
said.
“It’s
not about denying Israel as a state. I want Israel to exist; I want them to
live in peace,” Khan added. “But we’ve got to provide the Palestinians with a
safe living area as well.”
Harris’
candidacy is a “double-edged sword,” said Fullerton resident Urooj Naveed, who
is still unsure whether she’ll vote for Harris or leave the ballot blank in
November.
“On the
one hand, I want to be happy that a woman from California who is half-Indian
and Black is on this platform,” said the 23-year-old Pakistani American. “But
the issue of Palestine doesn’t really let me do that.”
“Her
heritage, her historic election as first female, first Black and first Asian
vice president — that’s important to me. I can’t simply throw all that out the
window, right? But I also think that representation shouldn’t come at the cost
of Palestinian lives,” she said.
Views
among Arabs and Muslims — both secular and religious — in the U.S. are clear
and tortured, said Nubar Hovsepian, an associate professor emeritus at Chapman
University and expert on Middle Eastern politics.
While
it’s still too early to predict how these communities will vote, Hovsepian —
who’s personally undecided if he will vote this year — said if they all lived
in California, they could simply not vote and still not risk a second Trump
presidency, as California is safe Democratic territory in the presidential
contest.
Hasan
Mirza, a Fullerton resident who graduated from UCLA in June, said he intends to
do just that.
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Down Ballot, our Southern California politics email newsletter. Subscribe here.
Mirza, a
Pakistani American who served as president of the Muslim Student Association at
UCLA, said calling for a cease-fire is a step in the right direction, but
Harris is not making enough of an effort to “separate herself from the
institutions that are backing policies perpetuating violence.”
“It’s
deeply frustrating to not have your vote have any value or impact,” he said.
“But I think it also does bring some comfort because I don’t envy the position
of anti-war, anti-genocide voters in other states that are even more conflicted
because they still understand that their vote has a lot more weight.”
Similarly,
Irvine resident and no party preference voter Arbazz Mohammed said he’s
“uncommitted to any candidate.”
He said
he has yet to hear policy specifics from Harris on how she plans to bring peace
to the Middle East. That poses the question, “If she’s elected, will the
administration really change between (Harris and Biden)?”
“I think
the good thing is that in California, we can really put the pressure on without
perhaps having to make a very difficult decision,” said Mohammed, a 32-year-old
Indian American. “For me, I don’t think I’m going to find myself at the ballot
box voting for a major party candidate.”
Some who
were undecided prior to the DNC, however, have been nudged into Harris’ camp.
For
Faisal Qazi, who’s watched the convention from his home in Fullerton, it wasn’t
Harris but former first lady Michelle Obama who convinced him.
Harris,
Obama said Tuesday night at the convention, “understands that most of us will
never be afforded the grace of failing forward. We will never benefit from the
affirmative action of generational wealth.”
“I think
this very quote was the clincher because there’s a deep historical reality
embedded in it that emanates from America’s social fabric and truly informs our
current dilemmas,” said Qazi, a 50-year-old registered Democrat who said his
feelings for Harris hovered around “cautious optimism” prior to the convention.
Qazi,
who’s Pakistani American, said he’s “extremely hesitatingly coming around but
with a significant dose of pessimism.”
Also
taking caution about supporting Harris is Azizah Cha, a registered Democrat and
active member of the Fullerton Muslim Community Center, a predominantly Cham-
and Vietnamese-led mosque.
“I hope
she can change policy and be better than Biden,” said Cha, 51. “I’m hopeful
because compared to Trump or Biden, she seems better, more sympathetic to the
Palestinian cause.”
She
added she’s still undecided, though, and may vote third-party.
Even
across the party line, some Orange County Muslims’ sentiments over the war in
Gaza are much the same. Buena Park resident Fareed Farukhi, a registered
Republican who bills himself as a fiscally conservative moderate, said he’s not
dismissing the possibility of voting for Harris in November.
“We need
someone who’s on the right side of history and against causing destruction and
pain to people,” he said.
Farukhi,
who’s Indian American, said he was excited when Harris was nominated.
“Finally
a person of color and of a different background and ethnicity stepping up,”
said Farukhi, 67. “Also, women can do amazing work, better than men.”
If she
can address issues both domestic and abroad, it’s a possibility,” he said. “But
she has to earn it.”
Source: ocregister.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.ocregister.com/2024/08/22/will-orange-countys-muslim-voters-support-kamala-harris-for-some-its-complicated/
-------
Ron
DeSantis rehashes Obama-era Muslim reference
August
22, 2024
A.G.
Gancarski
'I don't
think that's why NASA was created.'
Florida’s
Governor delivered an unexpected history lesson during a press conference,
though it wasn’t immediately clear if his audience got the reference.
In
remarks at Titusville’s Valiant Air Command, Inc. Warbird Museum, Gov. Ron
DeSantis griped about comments made nearly a decade and a half ago by a former
head of NASA around the time “they retired the space shuttle” program.
“I
remember the head of NASA at the time said that the primary responsibility of
NASA was to, you know, make the Muslim world feel better about their
contributions to science,” DeSantis said. “I don’t think that’s why NASA was
created.”
The
Governor’s comments were a reference to remarks made in 2010 by former NASA
chief Charles Bolden, in which the Barack Obama appointee said that kind of
outreach was a priority, as the President wanted him “to find a way to reach
out to the Muslim world and engage much more with predominantly Muslim nations
to help them feel good about their historic contribution to science, math and
engineering.”
The
comments, made to Al Jazeera, were transcribed by Space.com. And though they
had little to do with the space shuttle program, they created a stir at the
time, with the Obama administration forced to offer more context and
clarification.
A NASA
spokesperson said then that “NASA’s core mission remains one of space
exploration, science and aeronautics. Administrator Bolden regrets that a
statement he made during a recent interview mischaracterized that core mission.
The success of NASA’s efforts is increasingly enhanced by mutual cooperation
with dozens of other countries around the world that are also committed to
these efforts.”
“That
was not his task, and that’s not the task of NASA,” White House spokesperson
Robert Gibbs said, as reported contemporaneously by the Christian Science
Monitor.
Despite
the misinterpreted Muslim comments, Bolden would stay in the role through 2017.
The
Governor’s tough talk about the Islamic world is a recurring theme in his
public remarks, such as his advice this year to “expel from Congress,
denaturalize and deport” Democratic U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar after she said Somalia’s
interests mattered to her.
During a
campaign stop in Iowa, the Florida Governor maligned Bethlehem as a “pigsty”
and a “disgrace” just two days before Christmas 2023, complaining of the
“intentional” mosque offending his sensibilities on that occasion, and saying
control by Palestinian Arabs was the problem.
Source: floridapolitics.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://floridapolitics.com/archives/690193-desantis-titusville/
--------
Pakistan
12
Policemen Martyred In Bandits' Rocket Attack In Rahim Yar Khan
By Malik
Mohammad Aslam
August
22, 2024
RAHIM
YAR KHAN: Bandits in kacha area of Rahim Yar Khan carried out fierce rocket
attack on police vans in a riverine area on Thursday, leaving at least 12
policemen martyred and six injured.
The
horrific attack occurred in the Machka area located in one of Rahim Yar Khan's
riverine areas.
Police
officials told the media that two police vans with more than 20 cops were
trapped in rainwater in the locality when bandits launched rockets at them.
As a
result of the fierce attack, a dozen cops were martyred while seven others were
wounded and five went missing, the police added.
They
said that the wounded cops were immediately shifted to the hospital where one
of the wounded officials succumbed to his wounds, taking the death toll to 12.
According
to the police, the missing five policemen were safely rescued.
Interior
Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the dacoits' attack on Punjab police and paid
tribute to the martyred cops.
He also
prayed for the early recovery of the wounded policemen and pledged that the
government would stand beside the families of the martyred cops.
In a
statement, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed sorrow over the
martyrdom of police personnel saying that the sacrifices of the cops will
always be remembered.
She
directed the authorities concerned to take immediate action to recover the
missing policemen.
The
chief minister also sought a report from the Punjab Police Inspector General (IG)
Dr Usman Anwar on the Rahim Yar Khan incident besides directing to provide the
best medical aid to the injured police officials.
Following
her directives, the Punjab police chief, Additional IG Special Branch,
Additional IG Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and other relevant officers
left for Rahim Yar Khan, as per the statement.
Bandit
groups in riverine areas have always been a hurdle in maintaining law and order
for the provincial governments in Sindh and Punjab despite conducting multiple
operations to eliminate them.
A
National Action Plan implementation review committee decided in a meeting at
the National Counter Terrorism Authority (Nacta) headquarters in April to
launch a joint operation of Sindh and Punjab police forces against notorious dacoits
of the kacha areas in Sindh.
The
directives were issued by Interior Minister Naqvi who chaired the high-level
meeting attended by the interior secretary, heads of Nacta and the Federal
Investigation Agency (FIA), police chiefs of Punjab, Sindh, KP, Balochistan,
Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit Baltistan (GB) and provincial home
secretaries.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1222691-11-policemen-martyred-in-bandits-rocket-attack-in-rahim-yar-khan
--------
PTI
leadership accused of having 'no intentions' to secure Imran Khan's release
August
22, 2024
Aleema
Khan, the sister of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan,
castigated the current party leadership, saying they have no "real
intention" of securing the former prime minister’s release.
The
remarks came in response to PTI’s decision to put off its today's public
gathering in Islamabad and reschedule it for September 8 as the local
administration cancelled the no-objection certificate (NOC) and sealed roads
leading to the federal capital.
PTI
Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan confirmed the development and said the public
gathering would now be held on September 8, as per the instruction of Imran Khan.
A short
audio clip, purportedly featuring the voice of Aleema Khan, is making rounds on
social media, expressing disappointment over the postponement of the rally.
She
questioned the visit of Azam Swati, a senior PTI leader, to Imran early in the
morning and asked: “Who instructed him [Swati] to meet Khan at 7am and deliver
a message regarding the rally’s postponement.”
Aleema
further said that why they were consulting the PTI founder, who is currently
incarcerated at Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail, criticising the current leadership
for lacking the courage to make decisions.
She
alleged that the present PTI leadership has no real intention of freeing the
former premier from jail and “is using his name while making decisions
independently”.
Her
remarks were the latest in a series of broadsides launched against the present
PTI leadership.
Earlier,
former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry had said there was "no chance"
of the incarcerated party founder’s release in the presence of the current PTI
leadership.
“[Due
to] lack of political strategy of current PTI leadership, all of us are
suffering," said the former senior vice-president of the party, who parted
with Imran following May 9 violent protests that saw attacks on public and
military installations.
The former
federal minister had said Barrister Gohar-led party's leaders only doing
commentary on verdicts of different cases against jailed party leaders.
He was
of the view that “eligible” politicians like Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Pervaiz
Elahi, and Asad Qaiser should lead the party. Fawad, who is also a lawyer,
urged the top PTI leaders to stop “foolish talks” expecting the early release
of the PTI founder as a result of the court battles.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1222680-pti-leadership-accused-of-having-no-intentions-to-secure-imran-khans-release
--------
Dubai
Islamic Bank invited to boost investments
August 23, 2024
ISLAMABAD -
Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb
here on Thursday invited the Dubai Islamic Bank to enhance its investment in
the country; reaffirming the government’s dedication to maintaining a stable
macroeconomic environment and ensuring that all necessary measures were in
place to facilitate foreign investment.
The
minister was talking to the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Dr. Adnan
Chilwan during a virtual meeting to discuss Pakistan’s economic trajectory and
explore potential avenues for increased investment in the country. The meeting
was attended by Minister of State, Ali Parvez Malik, Secretary of Finance, and
other senior officers from the Finance Division, according to a press release
issued by the Finance Ministry. The finance minister expressed gratitude for
Dubai Islamic Bank’s continuous engagement with Pakistan’s financial sector,
the press release added. He highlighted the government’s commitment to
strengthening economic ties with international partners, particularly in
Islamic banking, and expressed optimism about future collaborations with Dubai
Islamic Bank.
Aurangzeb
provided an in-depth overview of Pakistan’s current economic scenario,
emphasizing the progress made in stabilizing the economy and fostering a
conducive environment for business and investment. He highlighted key
initiatives taken by the government such as broadening the tax base, enhancing
the ease of doing business, the digitalization of the FBR, and ongoing reforms
and restructuring in SOEs and privatization. On the occasion, Dr Adnan Chilwan
expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s economic policies and initiatives and
emphasized that Pakistan remains a strategically important market for Dubai
Islamic Bank. He reiterated the bank’s interest in playing a larger role in the
country’s financial growth, particularly in sectors such as Islamic banking,
infrastructure and SME development. The discussion underscored the importance
of strengthening economic cooperation between Pakistan and Dubai Islamic Bank.
The meeting reflected the shared commitment of both parties to fostering
sustainable economic development and further deepening financial ties between
Pakistan and UAE.
Source: nation.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.nation.com.pk/23-Aug-2024/dubai-islamic-bank-invited-to-boost-investments
-------
PPP
complains about unmet promises
Amir
Wasim
August 23, 2024
ISLAMABAD:
The top leadership of the ruling PML-N and its key ally PPP met on Thursday in
an effort to sort out differences between them on certain issues related to
governance and recent policy decisions taken by the federal and Punjab
governments.
During
the meeting held at the Prime Minister House and followed by a dinner, the PPP
complained about lack of implementation of the agreement reached between the
two parties at the time of the formation of the government in February.
Sources
in the two parties told Dawn that members of the PPP delegation headed by party
chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari apprised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his
cabinet members about their grievances, mostly related to the Punjab
government.
They
agreed that the coordination committees of the two parties would meet at
Governor House in Lahore on Sunday to “devise a mechanism to ensure regular
coordination between the PPP and the Punjab government”.
Bilawal,
PM Shehbaz hold talks, attend dinner; both sides agree to improve coordination
According
to a handout issued by the PM Office, leaders of the two parties reviewed
the current political situation in the country. It quoted the PM as having
stated that he had been working for the development and prosperity of the
country in coordination with the coalition parties.
Besides
Mr Bhutto-Zardari, the PPP delegation comprised ex-PM Raja Pervaiz Ashraf,
party’s parliamentary leader in the Senate Sherry Rehman and MNA Naveed Qamar.
The
prime minister was assisted by his deputy and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and
Adviser on Political and Public Affairs Rana Sanaullah, Planning and
Development Minister Ahsan Iqbal and Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar.
The PM
had called the meeting after the issues of soaring electricity tariffs and
rightsizing of ministries as part of austerity measures triggered a war of
words between the ruling allies.
The
friction escalated on Friday when PML-N President Nawaz Sharif, alongside his
daughter Maryam Nawaz, announced a Rs14 per unit relief for those consumers in
Punjab who use between 200 and 500 units per month. This announcement was met
with disdain from the PPP-led Sindh government and the PTI-led Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa government.
Sindh
Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah had accused the PML-N of introducing costly power
plants decades ago, which, he argued, had led to the high electricity costs.
He had
also accused the federal government of neglecting Sindh, claiming that many
projects requiring federal funds remained stalled.
Besides,
PPP had expressed serious reservations over the centre’s policy on rightsizing
of ministries.
The
sources said that during Thursday’s meeting, the PM told the PPP members that
the Centre had not provided a single penny to the Punjab province for this
relief and that the provincial government had arranged resources from its own
budget.
The
sources said that the two parties agreed to continue to cooperate with each
other inside and outside the parliament. They claimed that during the meeting
the PML-N showed its displeasure over the Sindh chief minister’s remarks about
the party and termed them “inappropriate.”
When
contacted, Ahsan Iqbal said the meeting took place in a “cordial atmosphere”
and both sides were of the view that they would have to work together.
He
confirmed that PPP had raised the issue of non-implementation of certain points
of the agreement signed at the time of the formation of the government, but
added that most of them were related to the Punjab government.
He said
the PM had asked Rana Sanaullah to devise a mechanism for better coordination
and working relationship between the PPP and the Punjab government.
In
response to a question about the PPP’s grievances over the Punjab-only relief
to power consumers, Mr Iqbal said the PM had told the PPP members that he would
soon announce reforms in the power sector and that PPP would be taken into
confidence before making such an announcement.
The two
sides also discussed the upcoming legislative agenda as the government planned
to convene the National Assembly session from Aug 26.
Source: dawn.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.dawn.com/news/1854078/ppp-complains-about-unmet-promises
--------
Rs20bn
allocated for Azm-i-Istehkam
Khaleeq
Kiani
August
23, 2024
• Ends
Dar’s policy that linked sugar exports to domestic price stability
ISLAMABAD:
The government approved a Rs20 billion “special allocation” on Thursday for
Operation Azm-i-Istehkam, an initiative announced three months ago to combat
terrorism and extremism.
The
decision was made during a meeting of the cabinet’s Economic Coordination
Committee (ECC), which also approved the export of 100,000 tonnes of sugar
while exempting sugar mills from responsibility for domestic price hikes.
Of this,
Rs1.95bn was allocated to the Frontier Corps Balochistan (South) for security
expenses related to the Reko Diq project, and Rs276.25 million to the Frontier
Corps Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (North) for project implementation letters (PILs).
Operation
Azm-i-Istehkam was announced on June 22 after a Central Apex Committee meeting
of the National Action Plan. The operation aims to deploy the country’s full
military, diplomatic, legislative and socio-economic resources to decisively
defeat terrorism and extremism.
The
announcement was met with fierce criticism from opposition parties — including
the PTI, JUI-F and the Awami National Party — both inside and outside the
parliament, with the KP chief minister even denying that any such thing was
discussed with him during the apex committee meeting.
The
intense opposition then prompted the government to clarify that the campaign,
to be launched under the banner of Azm-i-Istehkam, would not be a kinetic
large-scale military operation, nor would it entail the mass displacement of
the local populace.
The
country has witnessed an uptick in terrorism in the past year, especially in KP
and Balochistan, after the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan ended its
ceasefire with the government in November 2022.
Azm-i-Istehkam
is the latest in a series of counter-terrorism operations launched by the
Pakistan Army since the mid-2000s. More recent operations include Zarb-i-Azb,
launched in 2014 by Gen Raheel Sharif to combat militants in North Waziristan,
and Raddul Fasaad, initiated in 2017 under Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, to eliminate
what was then described as “residual terrorist threats” in the country.
Sugar
export
The ECC,
at the request of Minister for Industries and Production Rana Tanveer Hussain,
approved a major concession to sugar mills and their association — Pakistan
Sugar Mills Association (PSMA) — by exonerating them from potential increases
in sugar prices in the local market that normally move up on lower domestic
stocks.
The
provision was introduced about a decade ago by the ECC — then led by Ishaq Dar,
who linked export permissions to price stability in the local market. All
subsequent ECCs maintained this condition, and export permissions were
suspended in case of domestic price hikes.
Sugar
mills had long lobbied against this condition, arguing that market forces were
beyond their control. They eventually persuaded the minister for industries
during a Sugar Advisory Board (SAB) meeting on Wednesday that mills should only
be held accountable for ex-mill prices, not market prices.
“The ECC
approved the summary of the Ministry of Industries and Production” regarding
the export of a further 100,000 tonnes of sugar, an official announcement said,
adding the benchmark for retail price of sugar would be “delinked from the
permission to export sugar as retail price is not directly under the control of
sugar mills”.
The ECC
relaxed an earlier condition that required the revocation of export quotas if
sugar mills failed to pay growers from export proceeds. This condition will now
apply only to non-compliant mills rather than the PSMA as a whole.
In yet
another gift to sugar mills, the ECC extended the period allowed for exporting
sugar from 45 to 60 days from the date of quota allocation by the cane
commissioner.
The ECC
also decided that export proceeds for sugar destined for Afghanistan must be
received in advance through banking channels. For other destinations, export
proceeds via letters of credit (LCs) are allowed within 60 days of the LC’s
opening.
The
committee decided to monitor the market situation monthly and review.
This
decision followed a SAB meeting chaired by Rana Tanveer on Wednesday, which
recommended exporting 100,000 tonnes of surplus sugar with the understanding
that sugar mills would “ensure maintenance of ex-mill sugar prices”.
Published
in Dawn, August 23rd, 2024
Source: dawn.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.dawn.com/news/1854068/rs20bn-allocated-for-azm-i-istehkam
---------
Two
children killed in Attock school van shooting
Amjad
Iqbal
August 23, 2024
TAXILA:
Two girls were killed and five injured after gunmen opened fire at a school
van in the Dheri Kot area of Attock on Thursday, according to eyewitnesses and
police sources.
The
pickup van was carrying students of a school run by a charity from Dheri Kot
village to Surg in the foothills of Kalla Chitta range when two persons riding
a motorcycle intercepted the vehicle and opened fire.
The
assailants’ target was the van driver, Attock District Police Officer (DPO)
Sardar Ghayas told reporters, adding that the motive behind the attack was an
old enmity.
According
to eyewitnesses, as attackers opened fire, the driver accelerated, and the
bullets hit the children sitting in the rear of the vehicle.
The
deceased children have been identified as Rameen Shafiq, 9 and Arwa Jamshaid,
10.
According
to district emergency officer Ali Hasnian, five children aged between four and
12 and the driver were injured in the attack. They have been shifted to the
District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital for treatment.
The
injured were identified as Muhaib Ali, 8; Sumeria Bibi, 7; Shahzif Shafiq, 8;
Haseeb Ali, 12; Shahzim Shabbir, 4; and Muhammad Afzal, 48.
DPO Gul,
while talking to reporters outside the DHQ Hospital, ruled out terrorism as the
motive behind the attack. He added that initial investigation suggested the
gunmen, identified as Nasir and Nasim, targeted the van due to a personal
enmity with the driver.
A case
has been registered against the suspects and police are conducting raids to
arrest them, he added.
A police
spokesman also said human and digital intelligence is being used to trace the
culprits.
While
quoting the Attock police spokesman, Waseem Babar, AFP reported that the
gunmen were embroiled in court cases with the family of the driver.
Attock
Deputy Commissioner Rao Atif Raza assured the victims’ families of justice
and hoped the culprits would be arrested soon.
Sheikh
Aftab Ahmad, PML-N’s National Assembly member from Attock, also visited the
injured students in the hospital.
“Firing
on children in a school van is an act of brutality,” he said, adding that the
attackers “deserve no leniency”.
Shock
and sorrow
Meanwhile,
a pall of gloom descended upon the Dheerikot area when the victims’ bodies were
brought to their homes.
Mourners
consoled Muhammad Shafiq, whose daughter lost her life and the son was
injured. The victims’ last rites were performed at a local graveyard.
Condemnations
The
president, prime minister and other political leaders have condemned the
attack.
In his
message, President Asif Ali Zardari said strict action must be taken against
the attackers.
“Targeting
innocent children is a cruel and shameful act,” he was quoted as
saying in a statement from the President’s House.
He
prayed for the deceased, as well as for the speedy recovery of the injured
children.
Prime
Minister Shehbaz Sharif also called the attack a “cruel and gruesome” act.
According
to Radio Pakistan, the prime minister expressed solidarity with the
bereaved families and prayed for the departed souls.
Interior
Minister Mohsin Naqvi, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, Punjab Governor
Sardar Saleem Haider and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari also condemned
the attack.
Punjab
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz sought a report on the provincial police chief,
according to a statement issued by her public relations officer.
She
expressed deep grief over the death of the two students and directed the
authorities to provide the best treatment facilities to the injured.
Source: dawn.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.dawn.com/news/1854086/two-children-killed-in-attock-school-van-shooting
--------
Shehbaz
launches Buna-Raast connectivity project
By Ag
App
August
23, 2024
ISLAMABAD:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Thursday launched the Buna-Raast connectivity
project, which would link the payment mechanism with the Arab Monetary Fund’s
system to facilitate millions of overseas Pakistanis in Arab countries to send
remittances through a swift, affordable and effective method.
Addressing
the launching ceremony, he said besides easing the remittance-sending process
digitally, it would also help boost the country’s foreign exchange and further
strengthen the already cordial relations between Pakistan and the Arab world.
Calling
it a great step forward in promoting financial transactions through modern
techniques, he said the project would expand the reach of Pakistan’s digital
payment infrastructure. “This signifies how 21st-Century Pakistan is moving
ahead by augmenting modern technologies in the people’s lives.
“This is
the first cross-border real-time payment system linkage that will make
remittances more affordable and accessible,” he added.
PM
Shehbaz said the project also held the potential to accelerate the connectivity
into a future model of a wider payment system where transactions would take place
from region to region with a potential of over $20 billion in annual payments.
He thanked the Arab Monetary Fund, State Bank of Pakistan, Finance Ministry,
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Karandaaz for their support in launching
the project.
The
premier said he would unveil a five-year economic revival plan in the coming
weeks as broad parameters had already been finalised through months-long
deliberations with the stakeholders. He said the ‘Home-Grown Economic
Programme’ would envisage measures to boost the country’s economy by uplifting
agriculture, information technology and other untapped sectors. “Our programme
is under discussion and I will announce it very soon. Great work has gone into
it. It involves discussions and deliberations with all stakeholders over the
last many months. Recently we have finalised its broad parameters. By next week
or so, we will finalise it. I will go to the people to announce the programme
for the next five years,” the PM remarked.
Highlighting
the challenges of reforms in the Federal Board of Revenue and power sector, he
told the gathering that he was personally monitoring the digitisation of FBR
and the government was hopeful of positive outcomes of power sector reforms.
Earlier,
he also gave away mementos to the chairperson of Arab Monetary Fund Dr Fahad
Alturki, SBP Governor Jamil Ahmed, President of Bill and Melinda Gates
Foundation Dr Anita Zaidi and CEO of Karandaaz Waqasul Hassan.
In his
remarks, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said macroeconomic stability was
taking root in Pakistan’s economy as manifested by reduced current account
deficit, stable currency, improved foreign reserves, upgraded sovereign ratings
and reviving investors’ confidence.
eparately,
Arab Monetary Fund Chairperson Dr Fahad M Alturki Thursday called on Prime
Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and discussed matters related to mutual
concerns. “The digitization of E-Commerce sector and the economy is top
priority of the government,” Shehbaz said adding that a large number of
Pakistanis were residing in the Gulf countries who send a large amount of
foreign remittances to Pakistan.
Separately,
Secretary-General of Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures
in Asia (CICA) Ambassador Kairat Sarybay Thursday called on Prime Minister
Shehbaz Sharif. In the meeting, the PM expressed Pakistan’s strong desire for
enhanced regional connectivity and commended CICA’s ongoing efforts in this
regard. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for CICA’s core objective of
strengthening regional cooperation as well as promoting peace, security and
stability in Asia through confidence-building measures.
Secretary-General
Sarybay briefed PM Shehbaz on CICA’s ongoing activities and initiatives as well
as proposed vision for the future. He acknowledged Pakistan’s active and
constructive role within CICA and expressed the hope for continued close
cooperation.
Also, PM
Shehbaz Sharif met German Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and
Development Svenja Schulze and expressed Pakistan’s strong desire to revive its
partnership with Germany. He said Pakistan and Germany had a history of
mutually beneficial commercial and economic ties and lauded Germany’s role in
Pakistan’s industrial development.
Minister
Schulze conveyed the greetings of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to the prime
minister and reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to strengthening bilateral
relations with Pakistan, particularly in trade, investment and development
cooperation. She also shared that Germany was keen to increase its support for
Pakistan’s renewable energy sector and climate resilience initiatives. The two
sides discussed ways to further enhance bilateral economic cooperation,
including increased trade, investment, IT and technology transfer as well as
export of skilled labour. They also exchanged views on regional and global
issues, including the situation in Gaza and the Ukraine conflict. Minister
Schulze also extended an invitation to the prime minister on behalf of
Chancellor Olaf Scholz to attend the Hamburg Sustainability Conference in
October.
Meanwhile,
PM Shehbaz Sharif Thursday extended congratulations to five-year-old Sufiyan
Mehsud from Dera Ismail Khan on setting a Guinness world record. Sufiyan made
his parents and the country proud by achieving the remarkable feat at a tender
age, the prime minister said in a message. He praised Sufiyan’s exceptional
talent, saying that such gifted children are a guarantee of a bright future for
Pakistan.
Source: thenews.com.pk
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1222708-shehbaz-launches-buna-raast-connectivity-project
--------
South
Asia
EU
Chargé d’Affaires for Afghanistan Concludes Mission, New Appointee Announced
2024-08-22
KABUL(BNA):
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced the conclusion of the mission of
the European Union’s Chargé d’Affaires for Afghanistan, Ms. Raffaella Iodice.
According
to a press release, Ms. Iodice held a farewell meeting with Sher Mohammad Abbas
Stanikzai, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, on Wednesday.
During
the meeting, Ms. Iodice expressed her gratitude for the support and cooperation
received from the Ministry throughout her two-year tenure. She announced the
end of her mission and the appointment of Mrs. Vieranica Boskovic as the new
European Union Chargé d’Affaires in Kabul.
The
press release further noted that the EU Chargé d’Affaires emphasized the
continued cooperation between Brussels and Afghanistan. Ms. Iodice mentioned
her plans to travel to Doha to participate in a detailed meeting with embassies
regarding Afghanistan, followed by a comprehensive meeting with European Union
officials in Brussels.
In the
third session in Doha, Iodice expressed appreciation for the Islamic Emirate’s
participation and conveyed satisfaction with the progress made in Afghanistan’s
economic sector.
At the
same time, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the country expressed
appreciation for the European Union’s assistance in various fields and assured
Iodice of continued cooperation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/eu-charge-daffaires-for-afghanistan-concludes-mission-new-appointee-announced/
-------
Attack on
army personnel: Army files case against AL leaders, 3,200 unnamed
August
23, 2024
The army
yesterday filed a case over attacking army personnel, vandalising and torching
their vehicles, and snatching their weapons in Gopalganj on August 10.
Anisur
Rahman, officer-in-charge of Gopalganj Sadar Police Station, said Lt Col Md
Maksudul Alam, of 10th Bengal Regiment, lodged the case against 106 named
people, including Gopalganj Awami League president and general secretary, and
3,000-3,200 unidentified people.
According
to the case statement, a mob with local weapons attacked on-duty army
personnel, beat up government employees with the intention to kill them,
snatched their weapons, and vandalised and torched their vehicles.
On
August 10, AL leaders and activists blocked the Dhaka-Khulna highway to protest
"forcing former prime minister Sheikh Hasina to leave the country".
Many vehicles were stuck on both sides of the road. On information, on-duty
army personnel in Gopalganj went to the spot and asked the protesters to leave
the highway. The protesters and the army personnel locked in an altercation.
At one
stage, the demonstrators attacked the army personnel, injuring nine.
Besides,
two firearms and six magazines were snatched, and a vehicle was set on fire and
two others were vandalised.
Later,
the army recovered the two firearms and three magazines.
Source: thedailystar.net
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/crime-justice/news/cases-against-hasina-so-far-cross-50-3684376
--------
Cases
against Hasina so far cross 50
Aug 23,
2024
Former
prime minister Sheikh Hasina will be investigated for seven more murders,
taking the number of such cases so far after her August 5 downfall to 51.
Five of
the cases were filed in Dhaka and one in Narsingdi over deaths during the
recent student-led uprising, while in Bogura, a case was filed over the killing
that took place in 2018.
The
former PM now faces at least 42 cases on murder charges, seven for alleged
crimes against humanity and genocide, one on allegation of abduction and one
over an attack on a BNP procession.
Hasina
and 46 others were sued by Advocate Hannan Bhuiyan over the killing of a street
vendor named Shahabul Islam Shaon during the protests in Dhaka's Ashulia on
August 4, a day before her resignation and flight to India.
Dhaka
Senior Judicial Magistrate Arifa Chowdhury Himel ordered Ashulia police to
register it as a first information report (FIR).
AL
general secretary Obaidul Quader, ex-home minister Asaduzzaman Khan, former AL
MPs Md Saiful Islam and Talukdar Mohammad Towhid Jung Murad, and former police
chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun were among the accused.
Uttara
West resident Zakiullah Bahar, 56, filed another case against Hasina and 32
others over the death of 12th grader Abdullah Bin Jahid in the Airport area on
August 5.
Metropolitan
Magistrate Mainul Islam ordered the Airport Police Station chief to register it
as an FIR.
The
third case in the capital was filed by Mohammadpur resident Rabiul Khan Hillol
against Hasina and 67 others over the killing of Shahriar Hossain Rokon, 23, on
July 19.
Metropolitan
Magistrate Rajesh Chowdhury ordered Mohammadpur Police Station to investigate
the case.
Another
murder case against Hasina and 78 named accused and 450 to 500 unnamed people
was filed at Mohammadpur Police Station in connection with the killing of a
truck driver in the Beribadh area under Mohammadpur in the capital on July 20.
Meanwhile,
a murder case against Hasina and 147 others in Dhaka yesterday was filed at
Adabor Police Station. The victim, a garment factory worker, was shot on August
5 and died two days later.
In
Narsingdi, a case was filed against Hasina, Quader, Asaduzzaman, Mamun and 78
others over the killing of businessman Azizul Islam during the student-led
movement on July 19.
The
Chief Judicial Magistrate's Court directed the local police chief to register
it as an FIR after recording the statement of the plaintiff and victim's father
Almach Mia.
Hasina,
her sister Sheikh Rehana, son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, daughter Saima Wazed Putul and
76 others were sued over the abduction and killing of a union-level BNP leader
named Shah Alam Sujan in Bogura's Shibganj upazila in 2018.
Advocate
Abdul Wahab, also the general secretary of upazila unit BNP, filed the case
with a Bogura court which directed local police to investigate it.
The
other accused include Hasina's former press secretary Nayeemul Islam Khan,
Ekattor TV Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief Mozammel Babu, its former
principal correspondent Farzana Rupa, and ex-IGP Benazir Ahmed.
Source: thedailystar.net
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/crime-justice/news/student-protests-hasina-faces-five-more-cases-over-killings-3684211
--------
Acting
Interior Minister Meets with New Qatari Chargé d’Affaires for Afghanistan
:
2024-08-22
KABUL(BNA):
In a meeting, Acting Minister of Interior Affairs of the Islamic Emirate of
Afghanistan, Khalifa Sirajuddin Haqqani, welcomed the new Qatari chargé
d’affaires for Afghanistan, Dr. Mirdef Alqashouti.
During
the meeting, Haqqani congratulated Dr. Alqashouti on his appointment, terming
it an important development for the relationship between the two countries.
Haqqani praised the historical ties between Qatar and Afghanistan, and assured
continued cooperation between the two sides.
In
response, Dr. Alqashouti thanked Haqqani for the warm welcome and highlighted
the new chargé d’affaires’ efforts and aspirations for the Afghanistan-Qatar
relationship.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/acting-interior-minister-meets-with-new-qatari-charge-daffaires-for-afghanistan/
--------
Afghanistan
Eyes Increased Russian Investment Amid Natural Resource Wealth
:
2024-08-22
KABUL
(BNA): In a meeting with Russian and Afghanistan businessmen, Mullah Abdul
Ghani Akhundzada, the deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, touted the
country’s vast natural resource wealth as an attractive investment opportunity
despite its overall economic challenges.
“Although
Afghanistan is a poor country, it is rich in natural resources and has good
investment opportunities,” Deptuy PM Baradar stated during the meeting.
The
Deputy Prime Minister, assured the assembled businessmen of the Islamic
Emirate’s full cooperation, urging them to conduct their business ventures in a
“calm atmosphere” after carefully assessing the market.
The
remarks come as Russian businessmen expressed keen interest in boosting
investment, mainly in Afghanistan’s industrial sector. Russia has been looking
to deepen economic ties with the Islamic Emirate in Kabul following the
withdrawal of western forces in 2021.
Source: bakhtarnews.af
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.bakhtarnews.af/en/afghanistan-eyes-increased-russian-investment-amid-natural-resource-wealth/
--------
Bodies
of five executed Afghans found in Pakistan returned to families
Fidel
Rahmati
August
22, 2024
The
Taliban embassy in Islamabad announced that it had returned the bodies of five
Afghans who were executed at the Iran-Pakistan border to their families.
According
to a statement, these individuals were killed in Dalbandin, Balochistan, and
their bodies were found hanging from electricity poles.
Earlier,
health officials in Balochistan identified the victims as Dayi Khan, Rahmatullah,
Samiullah, Agha Wali, and Sardar Wali. All five were originally from Lashkar
Gah, the capital of Helmand Province in Afghanistan.
Pakistani
police suggested that the victims might be the same individuals whose
confessions were broadcasted by the militant group Jaish al-Adl on social media
last month.
Early in
August, Jaish al-Adl released a video showing five Afghan citizens they had
detained, accusing them of involvement in the killing of one of their leaders.
The group claimed these individuals had collaborated with the Iranian
government.
The
Taliban stated that it acted on the request of the victim’s relatives and
delivered their bodies to their families in Spin Boldak.
The
executed bodies were previously discovered in Chagai District, Balochistan,
near the Iranian border.
No group
has claimed responsibility for the killings. This incident highlights the
ongoing tensions and violence in the region, reflecting the broader struggles
between militant groups and state authorities.
The
escalating violence and unresolved tensions continue to affect both local and
cross-border communities, underscoring the need for increased security and
diplomatic efforts to address these issues.
Source: khaama.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.khaama.com/bodies-of-five-executed-afghans-found-in-balochistan-returned-to-families/
-------
Six
killed, five injured in explosion in Eastern Afghanistan
Fidel
Rahmati
August
22, 2024
In an explosion targeting a police ranger
vehicle in the Dara Noor district of Nangarhar, at least six students from a
religious school were killed, while another student and four Taliban members
were injured.
A
spokesperson for the Taliban police command in Nangarhar stated that these
students and their teachers were traveling to the Dara Noor district for
educational purposes.
According
to a statement released by the Taliban, the explosion occurred at 12:30 PM on
Thursday on the route of the Taliban ranger in the village of Shimal. The statement
reports that four students were killed instantly, and two others, all minors,
succumbed to their injuries on the way.
The
Taliban police spokesperson in Nangarhar reported that five students and one
teacher from the religious school were killed in the explosion.
Abdul
Basir Zabli mentioned that all the victims were residents of Nooristan and were
traveling to Dara Noor for educational purposes.
No group
has yet claimed responsibility for the explosion, and detailed information
about the nature of the incident remains unclear.
The
increasing frequency of such attacks reflects a broader pattern of violence.
ISIS, as a major adversary of the Taliban, has escalated its campaign of
bombings and targeted assaults against the Taliban, contributing to the instability
in the region.
The lack
of clarity about the perpetrators highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring
safety and security in volatile areas. Efforts to address these threats must be
intensified to protect innocent lives and mitigate further violence.
Source: khaama.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.khaama.com/six-killed-five-injured-in-explosion-in-eastern-afghanistan/
-------
Mideast
Israel
military court extends house arrest of soldiers accused of Palestinian prisoner
abuse
August
22, 2024
JERUSALEM:
Israel’s military court has extended the house arrest of soldiers accused of
sexually abusing a Palestinian detainee until Sept. 4 but will allow the
defense to hold a hearing on Sunday to request an alternative to detention, the
military said on Thursday.
It
specified such an alternative could include ‘a place of work and suitable
supervisors’.
The
soldiers have been accused of sexually abusing a member of an elite Hamas unit
at the Sde Teiman detention facility in the Negev desert in southern Israel,
according to Israeli press reports.
The
United Nations special rapporteur on torture has said the alleged sexual abuse
case is “particularly gruesome” and called on Israel’s civilian courts to investigate
and hold the perpetrators to account.
The UN
has received multiple reports of alleged torture against Palestinians detained
since Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas-led militants stormed Israel in a shock assault
that killed some 1,200 people.
More
than 40,000 people have been killed in Gaza in the 10 months of fighting that
have followed, according to health officials in the Palestinian enclave.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2568457/middle-east
-------
Islamic
Resistance in Lebanon announces targeting Zionist Branit site
22 Aug 2024
BEIRUT
August 22. 2024 (Saba) - The Islamic Resistance in Lebanon, led by Hezbollah,
announced on Thursday, that it targeted the Branit military site belonging to
the Zionist enemy army on the Lebanese border with occupied Palestine.
The
Islamic Resistance said in a statement published on its Telegram channel:
"In support of the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip and in support of
their resistance, our Mujahideen targeted the Branit barracks at 7:00 this
morning, Thursday, with heavy artillery shells and hit it directly."
Source: saba.ye
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.saba.ye/en/news3361607.htm
--------
Al-Aqsa
Support Committee Identifies Marches' Locations “With Gaza &Al-Aqsa...
Jihad & Steadfastness Until Victory”
22 Aug 2024
SANA'A
August 22. 2024 (Saba) - Al-Aqsa Support Committee has identified the gathering
areas in the capital Sana'a and the Provinces for the marches "With Gaza
and Al-Aqsa... Jihad and Steadfastness until Victory" tomorrow, Friday.
In the
capital Sana'a, Al-Aqsa Support Committee has identified Al-Sab'een Square as
the location for the million-man march "With Gaza and Al-Aqsa... Jihad and
Steadfastness until Victory" on Friday afternoon.
In
Sa'ada province, the committee has identified 26 areas for the million-man
march "With Gaza and Al-Aqsa... Jihad and Steadfastness until
Victory" tomorrow, where it has identified the Prophet's Birthday Square
west of the city as the location for the central march at 10:00 a.m. on Friday.
In
Al-Hodeida Province, Al Aqsa Support Committee has identified 49 squares for
the million-man march "With Gaza and Al Aqsa... Jihad and steadfastness
until victory" on Friday afternoon.
In Taiz
Province, Al-Aqsa Support Committee has designated 11 squares for the
million-strong march "With Gaza and Al-Aqsa... Jihad and steadfastness
until victory" tomorrow, Friday.
Al-Aqsa
Support Committee has designated 12 squares for the million-man march in Dhamar
Province, in the marches "With Gaza and Al-Aqsa... Jihad and steadfastness
until victory" tomorrow, Friday.
Al-Aqsa
Support Committee has identified 43 areas for the million-man march in Amran
Province, in the marches "With Gaza and Al-Aqsa... Jihad and steadfastness
until victory" tomorrow, Friday.
In Al
Bayda Province, Al Aqsa Support Committee designated the market square in Al
Bayda, the main street in Al Suwadiyah, Al Amal Street, Al Shokiyah in Rada’a,
and the directorate centers as places for popular gatherings in the marches
“With Gaza and Al Aqsa... Jihad and steadfastness until victory” after Friday
prayers.
Al-Aqsa
Support Committee has designated 22 squares for the million-man march in Rayma
Province, in the marches "With Gaza and Al-Aqsa... Jihad and steadfastness
until victory" on Friday morning.
In Al
Dhale’ Province, the committee designated the cities of Damt, Qurain Al Fahd,
and Shaleel in Baqatabah as places for gathering in the marches “With Gaza and
Al Aqsa... Jihad and Steadfastness until Victory,” after Friday prayers, and
the squares of the Tahoon Market, Amara, and Al Jabal in Al Hasha, and the city
of Juban in Al Dhale’ Province tomorrow morning.
The
committee also identified 61 squares for the million-man march in Ibb Province
in "With Gaza and Al-Aqsa... Jihad and steadfastness until victory"
marches tomorrow, Friday.
Al-Aqsa
Support Committee has identified 21 squares for the million-man march in
Al-Mahwit Province in the marches "With Gaza and Al-Aqsa... Jihad and
steadfastness until victory" tomorrow, Friday.
Al-Aqsa
Support Committee has identified 25 squares for the million-man march in
Al-Jawf Province, in the marches “With Gaza and Al-Aqsa... Jihad and
steadfastness until victory” on Friday.
In Marib
Province, Al-Aqsa Support Committee has designated Al-Jawba Square as the place
for the gathering tomorrow afternoon, Friday, and the squares of Sarwah,
Majzar, Harib Al-Qarameesh, Badbdah, and Al-Amoud in Mahiliyah tomorrow
morning, and Qania after Friday prayers.
In
Hajjah Province, Al-Aqsa Support Committee has identified 35 areas for the
million-strong march "With Gaza and Al-Aqsa... Jihad and steadfastness
until victory" tomorrow, Friday.
Source: saba.ye
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.saba.ye/en/news3361834.htm
--------
Demolition
of historic Alexandria site sparks public controversy
22 August 2024
CAIRO:
The recent demolition of parts of Dekheila Fort, a historic site near
Alexandria that dates back to 1250 A.D., has sparked widespread controversy and
criticism.
Officials
from the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities declined to respond to a request for
comment on the destruction at the site but residents and heritage campaigners
posted messages on Facebook that seemed to confirm it happened.
In one
such post, local resident and heritage enthusiast Ziad Morsi said Dekheila Fort
consisted of two structures and two cannons. One of the structures, known as
the basin, which was built during the Mamluk period that ran from 1250 to 1517,
has been demolished, he confirmed.
The
second structure, which remains standing, is a tower that is a remnant of
fortifications built by Ghalis Pasha during the reign of Muhammad Ali Pasha
(1805-1848) and reinforced with Armstrong cannons during the rule of Khedive
Ismail Pasha (1863-1879), he said.
Morsi
wrote on Tuesday: “We were surprised yesterday by images from the Dekheila area
showing a bulldozer demolishing the dry dock area and Dekheila Fort. I want to
highlight a few points, the first of which is that the Dekheila beach area
contains several historical sites, some of which are officially listed as
Islamic antiquities in Egypt, while others remain unregistered.
“Unfortunately,
what was demolished is the oldest registered Mamluk-era monument in Alexandria.
Some friends had plans to conduct detailed studies and propose a restoration
project for it.”
Abdel
Rahim Rehan, head of the Campaign to Defend Egyptian Civilization, an
organization established a few years ago to encourage preservation of the
nation’s heritage, said: “The basin adjacent to Dekheila fort, which is
reportedly demolished, is registered with the Ministry of Antiquities.
“It is
located directly on the shore of Lake Dekheila and was used during the Mamluk
era for city defense. However, it was repurposed during the reign of Muhammad
Ali Pasha as a lighthouse to guide ships entering Alexandria’s ports.”
He added
that the basin had suffered damage from winter coastal storms, marine debris
and sewage infrastructure.
The
Alexandria Antiquities Directorate has not commented on the demolition at the
site. However, on Wednesday it said two historical cannons had been moved as
part of a transfer of artifacts from the Dekheila fortifications to the nearby
Kom El-Nadoura archaeological area.
An
official from the directorate said: “Each cannon weighs 9 tonnes and they were
moved following approval from the Permanent Committee for Islamic and Coptic
Antiquities to ensure better preservation at the new site, as they are among
the most important registered artifacts.
“The
transfer was conducted under special procedures to preserve the cannons, with
police security provided during the move. The cannons are now part of a
collection in Kom El-Nadoura in Alexandria, where a display area for the
cannons is being prepared. It will be completed once the entire contents of the
fort are transferred.”
The
Department of Archaeological Engineering and Environment at Cairo University’s
Faculty of Engineering previously carried out studies at the site in
preparation for a restoration project but no work was carried out.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2568468/middle-east
--------
Gaza
Strip faces uphill battle against polio
August
22, 2024
GAZA
STRIP: The Gaza Strip’s first recorded polio case in 25 years has health
workers and aid agencies grappling with the steep obstacles to conducting mass
vaccination in the war-torn Palestinian territory.
Unrelenting
airstrikes by Israel more than 10 months into its war against Gaza rulers
Hamas, restrictions of aid entering the besieged territory, and hot summer
temperatures all threaten the viability of a life-saving inoculation drive.
Still,
equipment to support the extensive campaign — which UN agencies say could start
on Aug. 31 — has already arrived in the region.
The
Palestinian Health Ministry in the occupied West Bank said last week that tests
in Jordan had confirmed polio in an unvaccinated 10-month-old baby from central
Gaza.
According
to the UN, Gaza had not registered a case for 25 years, although type 2
poliovirus was detected in samples collected from the territory’s wastewater in
June.
Poliovirus
is highly infectious and most often spread through sewage and contaminated
water — an increasingly common problem in Gaza.
The
disease mainly affects children under the age of five.
It can
cause deformities and paralysis and is potentially fatal.
UN
bodies, the World Health Organization, and children’s agency UNICEF say they
have detailed plans to vaccinate 640,000 children across Gaza.
But a
significant challenge remains Israel’s devastating military campaign.
“It’s
extremely difficult to undertake a vaccination campaign of this scale and
volume under a sky full of airstrikes,” said Juliette Touma, director of
communications for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA.
Under
the UN plan, 2,700 health workers in 708 teams would take part, with the WHO
overseeing the effort, said Richard Peeperkorn, the agency’s representative in
the Palestinian territories.
UNICEF
would ensure the cold supply chain as vaccines are brought into and distributed
across Gaza, spokesman Jonathan Crickx said.
Cold
chain components, including refrigerators, arrived Wednesday at Israel’s main
international airport.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2568468/middle-east
---------
Proliferating
evacuation orders sow chaos, confusion in Gaza
August
23, 2024
GAZA
STRIP, Palaestinian Territories: The Israeli military has issued so many
evacuation orders in 10 months of war that many Gaza civilians no longer heed
them, despairing of finding space or safety in the shrinking “humanitarian”
zones.
Over the
first three weeks of August, the Israeli army sent out 11 evacuation orders via
flyers dropped from planes, text messages or social media.
They
called on 250,000 Gazans, almost all of whom had been displaced at least once
already, to leave their place of shelter.
“The
Israeli army will operate with force against terrorist organizations in this
area. For your safety, we urge you to evacuate immediately,” read one such
order sent out Thursday in the southern province of Khan Yunis.
“Every
time we arrive somewhere, we get a new evacuation order two days later. This is
no way to live,” Haitham Abdelaal told AFP.
Amneh
Abu Daqqa, 45, said she saw no point in moving again, so few were the options
for safe haven.
“To go
where?” asked the displaced mother of five.
“I live
on the street, literally. I don’t have 500 shekels ($133) to rent a
donkey-pulled cart. And I don’t even know where I’d go,” she said.
“There
is nowhere safe, there are air strikes everywhere.”
The
proliferation of Israeli evacuation orders also severely complicates relief
distribution by United Nations agencies in a blockaded territory where aid
trickles in via Israeli-held entry points.
Wednesday’s
evacuation order included “80 makeshift sites” but also offices and warehouses
used by aid agencies, the UN humanitarian affairs office (OCHA) said.
The
orders also affected “three water wells... which serve tens of thousands of
people,” OCHA added.
Sometimes,
the evacuation orders close roads, including the main Salah Al-Din highway that
runs the length of Gaza from north to south.
When
portions of it are included in evacuation orders, transport becomes a headache.
Trucks
must use the coast road that runs parallel to Salah Al-Din, currently lined
with makeshift camps that make movement “extremely slow and at times
impossible,” OCHA said.
Nerman
Al-Bashniti, who lives in one such camp, told AFP: “When the Israeli army took
the street that we were on, we ran to the sea, left our tent and all our
belongings inside.
“Where will
we go now? We can only throw ourselves into the sea and let the fish eat us.”
In the
early days of the war, the Israeli army touted its plans for the displaced.
After it
ordered the evacuation of the north in the first week of the war, it published
a map of Gaza broken down into several hundred numbered blocks, and declared
the southern area of Al-Mawasi a “humanitarian zone.”
To let
Palestinians know precisely which areas will be targeted by military
operations, its evacuation orders feature the numbered blocks varying in size
depending on building density.
But the
many blocks have made the orders confusing and sometimes even contradictory,
such as on occasions when blocks listed for evacuation were not featured as to
be evacuated on the accompanying maps.
From
1,200 inhabitants per square kilometer before the war, the Al-Mawasi
“humanitarian zone” now houses “between 30,000 and 34,000 people per square
kilometer” and its protected area shrank from 50 square kilometers to 41, the
UN calculated.
Most of Gaza
is one extended built-up area, but Al-Mawasi was the location of most of the
territory’s Jewish settlements before Israel demolished them when it pulled out
in 2005 leaving farmland fringed by the beach.
Now the
area is a vast tent-city with more families desperately looking for space to
pitch a tent with each new evacuation order.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2568491/middle-east
----------
US envoy
tells UN: Gaza ceasefire deal ‘now is in sight’
August
22, 2024
UNITED
NATIONS: A Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal “now is in sight,” the US
envoy to the United Nations told the Security Council on Thursday, urging
members to press Palestinian militant group Hamas to accept a bridging proposal
agreed to by Israel.
Months
of on-off talks have circled the same issues, but Israel and Hamas have stuck
to their demands.
US
Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said a bridging proposal put
forward last week by the US, Qatar and Egypt was consistent with a plan
outlined by President Joe Biden in May and endorsed by the Security Council in
June.
“Israel
has accepted the bridging proposal. Now Hamas must do the same,” she told the
council. “As members of this council, we must speak with one voice, and we must
use our leverage to press Hamas to accept the bridging proposal.”
Disagreements
over Israel’s future military presence in Gaza and over Palestinian prisoner
releases are obstructing a deal, sources familiar with talks told Reuters,
stemming from demands Israel has introduced since Hamas accepted Biden’s May
proposal.
“It’s a
decisive moment for ceasefire talks and for the region, and so every member of
this council should continue to send strong messages to other actors in the
region to avoid actions that would move us away from finalizing this deal,”
said Thomas-Greenfield.
The
conflict in Gaza put the entire Middle East region on edge, triggering months
of border clashes between Israel and Lebanon’s Iran-backed Hezbollah movement,
and threatening a wider escalation drawing in major powers.
Iran has
also vowed retaliation over the killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in
Tehran on July 31, which it blamed on Israel. Israel has neither confirmed nor
denied it was behind the killing.
“There’s
very real danger of regional escalation,” Thomas-Greenfield said. “So let us do
everything in our power to get this ceasefire and hostage release deal over the
finish line now.”
The
current war in the Gaza Strip began on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas gunmen stormed
into Israeli communities, killing around 1,200 people and abducting about 250
hostages, according to Israeli tallies.
Since
then, Israel’s military has leveled swathes of the Palestinian enclave, driving
nearly all of its 2.3 million people from their homes, giving rise to deadly
hunger and disease and killing at least 40,000 people, according to Palestinian
health authorities.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.
arabnews.com /node/2568442/middle-east
---------
Arab
World
Museum
of Islamic Art Presents Landmark Exhibition Surveying the Islamic Artistic
Traditions of Morocco
August
22, 2024
DOHA,
Qatar, Aug. 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) will
present Splendours of the Atlas: A Voyage Through Morocco’s Heritage. Organized
as part of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, the exhibition presents more
than 200 objects to tell a multifaceted story of Moroccan history, society,
artistic expressions, and how they continue to animate the nation’s cultures
today.
Splendours
of the Atlas includes loans from Moroccan institutions such as the National
Foundation of Museums and the National Library of Rabat that have never before
been shown in Qatar. Previously unseen works from the collections of Qatar
Museums, MIA, and the future Lusail Museum will also be on display. Splendours
of the Atlas is curated by Dr. Mounia Chekhab-Abudaya, MIA Deputy Director of
Curatorial Affairs.
Her Excellency
Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Years of Culture and Qatar
Museums Chairperson, said, “We are extraordinarily fortunate to partner with
institutions across Morocco for our Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, which
will greatly expand the ability of Qataris and those living in Qatar to gain
insight into the grand Islamic traditions of our neighbor in North Africa. Our
shared commitment to scholarship, scientific discovery, and artistic excellence
has created a fertile basis for this year’s rich Year of Culture program.”
The
Years of Culture initiative spearheads long-lasting cultural partnerships
between Qatar and other nations. It exists to promote respect and understanding
among diverse cultures.
Splendours
of the Atlas is organized thematically into five sections:
"Faces
of Morocco: Landscapes and Society" will immerse visitors in a mosaic of
photographs by Bruno Barbey, Irving Penn, Lalla Essaydi, Mous Lamrabat, and
Mounir Raji.
"The
Soul of Morocco: Kings, Saints, and Scholars” delves into Moroccan dynastic
history, which cultivated theological scholarship and scientific advances in
the cities of Fez and Marrakech.
"Threads
of Tradition: Morocco’s Artisanal Mastery" explores the pivotal role of
crafts in Morocco's many cultures, showcasing the leather, textile, carpet,
ceramic, jewelry, and woodwork industries.
“Traditional
Sounds of Morocco” presents musical instruments that are used to create
everything from the Andalusian melodies of the cities to the gnawa music of the
South.
The
final section is an ode to contemporary Moroccan craftsmanship. If features
seven commissioned works by Moroccan artist Noureddine Amir, which respond to
traditional crafts while reinventing them for new abstract works that will hang
from the gallery’s ceiling.
Source: globenewswire.com
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the text of the original Story
https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2024/08/22/2934323/0/en/Museum-of-Islamic-Art-Presents-Landmark-Exhibition-Surveying-the-Islamic-Artistic-Traditions-of-Morocco.html
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7th
Tanween creativity conference set on Oct. 31-Nov. 6 in Dhahran
August
23, 2024
DHAHRAN:
Preparations are underway for the seventh edition of the annual Tanween
creativity conference, which will take place October 31 to November 6 at the
Ithra Center in Dhahran, the Saudi Press Agency reported Friday.
Around
60 resource persons from around the world will be participating in conference,
which goes with the theme "Fail Forward," said the report, quoting an
announcement by the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra).This year's
conference will feature workshops, training sessions, exhibitions, and other
events aimed at achieving tangible results in the field of design, Ithra said.
It added
that the conference "seeks to change the perception of failure by making
setbacks a natural part of the design process."
"The
conference also aims to embrace failure as part of the creative process, in
which each experience offers lessons leading to innovative discoveries and valuable
experiences that help the creative community continue to advance and turn
challenges into opportunities for growth and success," the center said.
In line
with the aims of the conference, Ithra called on creators and innovators to
develop design solutions that enhance and enrich the Hajj experience through
three main tracks: "Communication" to improve and develop guidance
and direction services, "Waste Management" to reimagine the process
during the Hajj season, and "Health" to find new ways to reduce
pilgrims' fatigue.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
It
invited all interested parties to submit their projects before October 24 via
the website:
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2568499/saudi-arabia
-------
Registration
is on for 3rd Global AI Summit in Riyadh, SDAIA announces
August
23, 2024
RIYADH:
Registration is now open for the third edition of the Global AI Summit, which
will take place from September 10 to 12 at the King Abdulaziz International
Convention Center in Riyadh, the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) announced
on Thursday.
In a
statement carried by the Saudi Press Agency, SDAIA said some 300 experts,
policymakers, thought leaders and influencers from 100 countries will speak
during the 3-day event.
There
will be around 120 panel discussions and workshops, during which speakers will
delve into globally relevant data and artificial intelligence aspects, the
announcement said.
Among
the speakers are Cristiano Amonp, president & CEO Qualcomm &
Incorporated; Dr. Samer Al Moubayed, co-founder & CEO Furhat Robotics;
Caroline Yap, global managing director of Google Cloud; Saad Toma, general
manager of IBM Middle East & Africa; Asha Saxena, founder & CEO of
Women Leaders in Data and AI; Dr. Masoud Nikravesh, CEO & founder of
AilluminateX; and Prof. Tony Chan, former president of King Abdullah University
of Science and Technology (KAUST).
"Topics
to be discussed include innovation and industry within the artificial
intelligence field, pivotal moments that will shape a better future for
artificial intelligence, artificial intelligence at local and global levels,
artificial intelligence ethics, and the impact of artificial intelligence on
the development of smart cities," the SDAIA said.
Individuals
interested in benefiting from the valuable discussions on artificial
intelligence's current and future dimensions presented during the summit are
encouraged to register using the following link:
https://registration.globalaisummit.org/request-invitation.
Information
and details for obtaining entry cards will be emailed if registration is
confirmed.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2568497/saudi-arabia
--------
GEA
announces theme, identity of Saudi National Day
August
22, 2024
RIYADH:
The Saudi General Entertainment Authority (GEA) announced on Thursday the
identity of the 94th Saudi National Day, which falls on September 23, under the
slogan “We Dream and Achieve,” Saudi Press Agency reported.
SPA
added that the identity, which has been extended since last year, highlighted
the mega projects that are part of Saudi Vision 2030, representing Saudi
Arabia’s position and pioneering role in all fields.
The GEA called
on all government and private entities to use the approved branding for the
94th National Day.
The
identity guide can be downloaded by visiting the official website, which
contains instructions for the logo and how to use it in various applications,
in addition to everything related to the National Day, including events, news
and photos that can be used to mark the occasion.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2568476/saudi-arabia
--------'
How a
cutting-edge AI model developed in Saudi Arabia is reshaping medical
diagnostics
August
22, 2024
RIYADH:
Artificial intelligence in healthcare is revolutionizing medical diagnostics,
from streamlining patient care to enhancing the speed and accuracy of disease
detection.
Saudi
Arabia is at the forefront of this revolution with the development of an
innovative AI model called MiniGPT-Med, which promises to reshape how medical
professionals approach diagnostics.
With the
ability to analyze vast amounts of data and identify patterns that might be
missed by the human eye, AI is fast becoming an indispensable healthcare tool.
Whether
detecting early signs of diseases, interpreting medical scans or helping plan
treatment, AI’s role in medicine is expanding rapidly, reducing costs and
improving patient outcomes.
Enter
MiniGPT-Med, a cutting-edge, vision-interfaced AI model developed in Saudi
Arabia by the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in
collaboration with the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority.
Launched
in July, this advanced tool is designed to enhance the accuracy of medical
diagnostics by integrating image analysis with textual clinical data,
significantly improving the detection of conditions such as pneumonia, edema,
brain tumors and lung cancer.
“MiniGPT-Med
aids doctors by improving diagnostic accuracy through integrated processing of
both image and textual clinical data,” Mohamed Elhoseiny, assistant professor
of computer science at the Visual Computing Center at KAUST, told Arab News.
“It can
be thought of as giving a large language model medical eyesight by carefully
integrating vision into the language model and preparing the necessary data to
learn these skills, including the localization of issues in medical images.”
MiniGPT-Med
builds on the existing architecture of large language models — or LLMs — like
OpenAI’s ChatGPT, which have already demonstrated exceptional medical
knowledge.
One of
the key features that sets MiniGPT-Med apart from other AI models is its
ability to localize abnormalities within medical images.
Doctors
interact with it using simple, predefined queries such as “Could you describe
the contents of this image for me?” or “Where is the abnormality?”
The AI
then provides immediate, accurate results, such as identifying pneumonia in a
chest X-ray or pinpointing the exact region of a brain tumor in an MRI scan.
In
initial trials, it has already surpassed the accuracy of previous models by as
much as 19 percent.
Trained
on diverse medical datasets, MiniGPT-Med leverages millions of cases to back up
its diagnoses, drawing reasoned conclusions by comparing images to similar
cases in its database.
The
model sources its information from five comprehensive medical datasets, including
MIMIC-CXR (chest X-ray images and reports), NLST (low-dose CT scans for lung
cancer detection), SLAKE (radiology images), RSNA (pneumonia detection), and
RadVQA (radiology images).
Despite
its accuracy, Elhoseiny is keen to emphasize that MiniGPT-Med is designed to
complement, not replace, healthcare professionals.
“The new
diagnostics method introduced by models like MiniGPT-Med aims to assist, not
replace, physicians and radiologists, enabling them to do more with less,” he
said.
Instead,
by enhancing diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, the AI tool is intended to
help doctors deliver better care, especially in under-resourced areas.
Looking
to the future, the development team at KAUST and SDAIA plans to incorporate
more diverse datasets, improve the model’s understanding of complex medical
terminology, and enhance its reliability.
Extensive
clinical validation studies are also planned to ensure that MiniGPT-Med is safe
and effective in real world healthcare environments.
The
collaboration between KAUST and SDAIA represents a significant step forward in
the application of AI in healthcare.
Elhoseiny
says the partnership is aligned with the broader goals of the new GenAI Center
of Excellence at KAUST, where further innovations in AI are expected to emerge.
With
technologies like MiniGPT-Med, Saudi Arabia is not only advancing its
healthcare capabilities but also positioning itself as a leader in the global
AI landscape.
As these
technologies continue to evolve, they hold the promise of transforming healthcare
practices worldwide, offering hope for more accurate diagnoses and better
patient outcomes.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2568476/saudi-arabia
--------
Saudi Arabia,
Tajikistan sign deal to cooperate on Islamic affairs
August
22, 2024
JEDDAH:
In a move to strengthen Islamic cooperation, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic
Affairs, Dawah and Guidance has entered into an agreement with Tajikistan’s
Committee on Religious Affairs and Regulation of Traditions, Celebrations and
Ceremonies.
The deal
was signed on Thursday in Jeddah by Islamic Affairs Minister Dr. Abdullatif
Al-Asheikh and Sulaimon Davlatzoda, chairman of the Tajik committee.
It aims
to foster collaboration in various aspects of Islamic affairs, focusing on
promoting understanding of the religion by highlighting its merits, tolerance
and stance on contemporary issues through the exchange of research and
scientific books in various languages.
The two
countries will also hold joint scientific seminars to train professionals in
Islamic affairs and exhibitions to introduce Islamic teachings.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2568470/saudi-arabia
---------
Fatwa
symposium website to offer news, guidance
August
22, 2024
MADINAH:
Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, president of religious affairs at the Two Holy
Mosques, has launched the website of the Two Holy Mosques’ fatwa symposium, which
will be held for the first time at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.
The
initiative aims to stress the importance of broadcasting and spreading the
symposium’s message in the Islamic world and globally, highlighting the role of
fatwa and consolidating the approach of centrism and moderation.
Al-Sudais
said that the authorities were keen to disseminate the symposium’s message and
its scholarly sessions through the website, in addition to broadcasting the
symposium’s news, reports and success stories, and communicating its moderate
message to the world.
The
website includes many online services and icons for viewing the symposium and
its sessions live.
Source: arabnews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.arabnews.com/node/2568464/saudi-arabia
--------
Southeast
Asia
Zahid
seeks to unite Malay NGOs under ‘Rumpun Melayu’ banner with Islam at core
By R.
Loheswar
23 Aug
2024
KUALA
LUMPUR, Aug 23 — Umno president Datuk Seri Ahamd Zahid Hamidi today said he
plans to bring together all Malay non-governmental organisations under one
banner, calling it “Rumpun Melayu”.
He said
the Malays were being split further even as their political power is
diminishing.
“To
strengthen the agenda of power-sharing centred on Malay and Islamic principles,
Umno will undertake a large-scale effort to unite Malay NGOs into a single
movement. This movement, which I have named Rumpun Melayu.
“Through
this movement, we will collaborate with organisations that share the spirit of
defending power-sharing. We want this movement to serve as a platform to ensure
that the Malay and Islamic agenda remains the core of any form of cooperation
we seek to establish,” he told delegates at the Umno annual general meeting
held at the World Trade Centre here.
Apart
from that, Zahid also said Umno has outlined three political principles to face
the new dynamics and current realities of the country's political landscape.
One is
dominance of parliamentary seats to ensure Umno becomes the ruling party.
Secondly,
being open to collaboration with political coalitions that accept Islam and
Malay leadership as the core.
Thirdly,
to ensure moderate politics by taking a middle-ground approach as a model for
consensus that can maintain national stability.
“I have
outlined these principles because the changing political landscape and voter
attitudes have practically mapped out the composition of parliamentary seats.
Based on the current scenario, the 222 parliamentary seats are now almost
equally divided among the major parties.
“Currently,
each party holds between 30 and 40 seats in Parliament. This situation requires
Malaysia's democratic practice to reach a level of maturity. No party or
coalition holds a simple majority to form the government, and some studies
predict that this scenario will persist after the next general election,” he
said.
He
admitted the current practice poses a challenge for Umno “but it also opens the
door for all parties to find common ground for the good of the country”.
“Cross-party
collaboration to form the government is seen as the most significant outcome of
this changing political landscape,” he said.
Zahid
said such factors were not just about Umno’s survival but also about making it
the decisive force in forming the government.
He said
managing and governing a country should not be treated as an experiment to be
tried every “five years”, adding that doing so could lead to “regret”.
Zahid
lashed out at political rivals PAS and Bersatu in his two-hour long speech,
likening them to the “tortoise” that hides the head but will stick its neck out
only when it is strong “to sell out their principles”.
He said
that unlike the current Opposition, Umno never sought to ratify the
International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial
Discrimination (ICERD).
“Bersatu
was once in government. Let us not forget, they were among those responsible
for threatening the position of the Malays.
“The
effort to adopt ICERD was brought forth by one of their leaders, who was a
minister at the time. Even the prime minister was from Bersatu. We will not
forget, even though he says Malays easily forget. If it weren’t for us, as the
defenders of Malay sovereignty, who rose up in opposition, that convention
would have been signed,” he said.
“PAS who
hides behind religion when they were in government, what Islamic agenda did
they bring?” he asked, rhetorically.
He
alleged that the Islamist party was notably silent on Bill 355, the proposed
amendments to the Syariah Courts (Criminal Jurisdiction) Act 1965 when it held
federal power.
“Hudud
was no longer their main agenda. And the Islamic state? Nowhere to be found.
“Malays
need to realise this,” he said.
Zahid
claimed the Malay Opposition parties “only know how to play on sentiments and
emotions, not to strengthen the position of the Malays and Islam”.
He urged
the Malay community not to be deceived or mesmerised by the Opposition’s
eloquent speech as the impact on the nation's stability and harmony will be
significant.
Source: malaymail.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/08/23/zahid-seeks-to-unite-malay-ngos-under-rumpun-melayu-banner-with-islam-at-core/147957
---------
Perak’s
Sultan Nazrin warns Muslim community against entrusting power to the corrupt
23 Aug
2024
KUALA
LUMPUR, Aug 23 — The Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, today urged the
Muslim community to refrain from entrusting responsibilities to individuals
tainted by corruption and abuse of power.
His
Royal Highness said the Muslim community must resolutely reject individuals
with a corrupt or hypocritical image and those of weak morals, as well as any
behaviour that could tarnish the reputation of the community and the sanctity
of Islam.
Sultan Nazrin
said the success of promoting Islam largely depends on the success of its
followers and the Muslim community has a responsibility to portray Islam in a
vibrant light and to fill it with compelling content.
“The
image of Islam and the global perception of it are influenced by the
achievements and status of the Muslim community. Islam will garner greater
respect and continued reverence if the majority of its followers demonstrate
excellence across various fields.
“Therefore,
efforts and programmes aimed at human development should be prioritised. To
elevate the stature of Islam and the community, it is crucial to focus on
enriching the younger generation with knowledge through coordinated and
strategic initiatives, harmonised and integrated efforts,” he said when
launching the 72nd Meeting of the National Council of Islamic Religious Affairs
(MKI) here.
Also
present was Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
His
Royal Highness, who is MKI chairman, said the past grandeur of Islam has left
behind a remarkable legacy and high ideals, however, progress for any community
cannot rely solely on legacy and ideals.
To
transform the quality of the Muslim community towards a more progressive
future, we must foster a narrative rooted in realism and forward-thinking.
“The
survival of the Muslim community must be built on strengthening mental
resilience and instilling confidence to compete and excel, rather than
resorting to fear tactics that create prejudice and discomfort when interacting
with non-Muslims,” he said.
Islam is
not just rhetoric, slogans, or banners; it must be demonstrated through
tangible actions by its followers, said Sultan Nazrin.
“The
relevance of Islam can only be proven when it is manifested in the daily lives
of Muslims. The greatness of Islam should be reflected in the character and
actions of the Muslim community, not merely in the glorified stories of past
Islamic figures,” he said.
Sultan
Nazrin said Muslims must learn from past mistakes, particularly the tendency to
choose shortcuts for quick fixes, which often result in temporary solutions
lacking a solid foundation.
Meanwhile,
His Royal Highness urged members of MKI to embrace and champion the spirit of
“syura”, focusing on commonalities while avoiding the amplification of
differences.
“The
practice of ‘syura,’ or consultation, as advocated by Islam, empowers leaders
to make informed decisions through collective wisdom.
“We must
build bridges to reconcile divergent views and interpretations, preventing
confrontations that could fracture unity within the Muslim community,” he said.
Sultan
Nazrin added that the MKI secretariat should engage extensively with all
stakeholders before introducing any policy and should be equipped with an
effective and comprehensive communication plan to avoid any post-implementation
discord.
“May MKI
effectively serve as a pivotal advisory body, innovating new strategies and
methods to broaden the mindset of the community.
“By
breaking free from narrow perspectives and outdated thinking, the Malaysian
National Council of Islamic Religious Affairs should lead a cultural and
intellectual transformation, fostering a dynamic and progressive community that
amplifies the essence of Islam,” said the Sultan. — Bernama
Source: malaymail.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/08/23/peraks-sultan-nazrin-warns-muslim-community-against-entrusting-power-to-the-corrupt/147936
--------
JETP:
Norway Invests $25 Million in Indonesia's Solar Power Development
The
Jakarta Globe
August
23, 2024
Jakarta.
Norway recently announced an investment of around $25 million for Indonesia's
solar power development as part of the climate financing package Just Energy
Transition Partnership (JETP).
The
Norwegian Climate Investment Fund, managed by Norfund, led the first JETP
equity investment in Indonesia. Norway announced the investment during
Norwegian Energy Minister Terje Aasland's visit to Indonesia in July.
“Norway
and Indonesia are close partners in the transition to renewable energy. This
most recent investment is testimony of Norway’s commitment to support Indonesia
as a member of the JETP,” Norwegian Ambassador to Indonesia Rut Krüger Giverin
was quoted as saying in a recent press statement.
Norway
and Indonesia have been close energy partners for the past 30 years, marked by
the signing of an MoU on bilateral energy consultations in 1995. In later
years, several leading Norwegian companies in renewable energy and low-carbon
technologies are looking at investment opportunities in Indonesia.
Norway
is a member of the International Partners Group (IPG) in Indonesia’s JETP. It
has pledged up to NOK 2.5 billion ($230 million as per July 2024 exchange rate)
in the form of equity investment from the Norwegian Climate Investment Fund.
The $25
million investment in Indonesia’s renewable energy start-up Xurya will support
new solar projects in Indonesia. Norfund led the funding round, which included
Swedfund, Climate Capital as the manager of Southeast Asian Clean Energy Fund
(SEACEF) II, British International Investment (BII) and AC Ventures. In total,
Xurya has received an additional $55 million of investment in this round.
“Norfund
is thrilled to lead this investment round in Xurya, mobilizing private and
public capital into a company that is making vital contributions to the energy
transition in Indonesia. The investment is a perfect fit with the mandate of
the Climate Investment Fund of contributing to avoiding greenhouse gas
emissions by investing in renewable energy in emerging markets,” said Anders
Blom, Senior Vice President, Renewable Energy at Norfund.
Xurya
was established in 2018 and has more than 170 solar power projects distributed
across Indonesia. It is the first renewable energy company in Indonesia to receive
direct funding from the Norwegian Climate Investment Fund, according to the
press release.
Source: jakartaglobe.id
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://jakartaglobe.id/business/jetp-norway-invests-25-million-in-indonesias-solar-power-development
--------
Malaysia
will never leave Palestinians to fight alone - Ahmad Zahid
BERNAMA
23-08-
2024
KUALA
LUMPUR: Malaysia will never leave the Palestinian people to fight alone, but
will continue to support them in their fight for their rights and to end the
war atrocities committed by the Zionist regime, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk
Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.
The UMNO
president also congratulated Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for being
bold and vocal in expressing Malaysia’s firm stance in support of the
Palestinian people’s struggle.
Ahmad
Zahid also congratulated Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and Defence
Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, who are UMNO deputy president and
vice-president respectively, for their successful contribution in bringing in
injured Palestinians from Gaza to receive medical treatment at the military
hospital in Malaysia.
He also
expressed appreciation to the Foreign Ministry for its active role that led to
the acceptance of Palestine’s bid for full membership in the United Nations.
“This is
proof that we don’t just play politics, we are committed. Insya-Allah, we will
continue our support until Palestine can breathe the air of independence in the
true sense of the word,” he said in his policy speech at the 2024 UMNO General
Assembly here today.
Meanwhile,
Ahmad Zahid said the government will continue to defend the sovereignty of
Sabah from any claims.
In this
context, he also congratulated Minister of Law and Institutional Reform Datuk
Seri Azalina Othman Said following the victory at the courts in The Hague in
the Netherlands, France and Spain in the case over the Sulu Group’s claim
against Malaysia.
“This
success means a lot to the sovereignty of Sabah. To our friends in Sabah, we
will defend the land, we are not going to entertain any claim on Sabah. Sabah
is a state in an independent country,” he said.
Previously,
the eight citizens of the Philippines, who claimed to be heirs of the defunct
Sulu sultanate, filed for arbitration proceedings in Spain to seek billions of
US dollars from Malaysia over Sabah, and a court in Madrid had in March 2019
appointed Dr Gonzalo Stampa to be the arbitrator for the Sulu claimants’ case.
In a bid
to enforce the award issued by Stampa in May 2020, they were reported to have
tried to seal the assets of national oil company Petronas in Luxembourg and the
Netherlands, apart from targeting the country’s diplomatic assets in France.
The
Malaysian government, however, had aggressively countered the claim and had
secured a decisive victory in the long-running dispute, as a result of
favourable rulings by the Court in Luxembourg, the Hague Court of Appeal in the
Netherlands, the Paris Court of Appeal in France as well as in the Spanish Court.
In
January this year, the rogue arbitrator Stampa was found guilty of contempt of
court and was sentenced by the Spanish Court to six months in prison. The court
also banned him from practising as an arbitrator for a year.
Source: thesun.my
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://thesun.my/local-news/malaysia-will-never-leave-palestinians-to-fight-alone-ahmad-zahid-GC12898824
--------
Matters
raised by three wings discussed during UMNO supreme council meeting tonight -
Mohamad Hasan
BERNAMA
23-08-
2024
KUALA
LUMPUR: The Special UMNO Supreme Council (MT) tonight discussed a report on
matters raised at the General Assembly of the Wanita, Youth and Puteri wings
that convened today.
UMNO
Deputy President Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said it was reported by MT
representatives who attended the conference of the three wings concerned.
“Alhamdulillah,
this year it seems that the debate was done well (where) various matters have
been discussed and many proposals have been brought up by all three wings,” he
told reporters after the meeting at Menara Dato Onn, here tonight.
Mohamad
who is also the Deputy Chairman of Barisan Nasional (BN) said that among issues
that the three wings had focused is related to provide opportunities for young
leaders to jointly manage the party, the effectiveness of education policies
that need to be reviewed in line with technological changes and agendas on
women’s empowerment.
Regarding
the candidates for the Mahkota State Legislative Assembly By-Election, Mohamad
said the matter had been agreed before that the selection of candidates would
be done from the division and forwarded to the state liaison and later
discussed with the party’s top leadership.
“I heard
that the division has held an internal discussion and they will submit a
shortlisted list. We don’t want one name, we usually ask for at least three
names so that we can make an assessment, we will do a certain screening,” he
said.
He added
that the candidate to be selected does not necessarily be from the women’s wing
of the party.
“There
is no provision that the candidate must be a woman. It’s not because the chair
used to be (filled by) a woman that we must give it to a woman. It will be
discussed,” he said.
The
Mahkota seat fell vacant after the incumbent Datuk Sharifah Azizah Syed Zain,
63, passed away while receiving treatment at the Hospital Enche’ Besar Hajjah
Khalsom, Kluang on Aug 2.
The
Election Commission (EC) has set the date for the by-election as Sept 28 while
the nomination date has been fixed for Sept 14 and early voting in on Sept 24.
Source: thesun.my
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://thesun.my/local-news/matters-raised-by-three-wings-discussed-during-umno-supreme-council-meeting-tonight-mohamad-hasan-JC12897718
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PM Anwar
refutes Muhyiddin’s 115 SDs claims, says some statutory declarations signed a
few times by same MPs
By Syed
Jaymal Zahiid
23 Aug
2024
KUALA
LUMPUR, Aug 23 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim alleged today that
some of the statutory declarations that opposition leader Tan Sri Muhyiddin
Yassin cited as proof that he had majority support to form a government were
signed by the same lawmakers multiple times.
Anwar
was rebutting Muhyiddin’s allegation that the latter had the backing of 115
members of parliament in a speech made during the Nenggiri by-election
recently.
“Some of
the SDs were actually signed a few times by the same MPs,” he told reporters in
a brief press conference held after lunching at the Gertak Merah stall in
Kampung Sungai Penchala here.
Muhyiddin’s
party Bersatu lost the seat to Barisan Nasional by over 3,000 votes, in what
was seen as a major blow to the Malay opposition party.
Source: malaymail.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/08/23/pm-anwar-refutes-muhyiddins-115-sds-claims-says-some-statutory-declarations-signed-a-few-times-by-same-mps/147987
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Zahid:
Umno will not stop until ‘Bossku’ Najib receives justice
By R.
Loheswar
KUALA
LUMPUR, Aug 23 — The plight of convicted former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib
Razak will continue to be championed by Umno, said Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid
Hamidi today.
The Umno
president said that despite many questioning his bid for house arrest on behalf
of Najib and the pardons granted to Najib by the former Yang di-Pertuan Agong,
the party remains steadfast in its commitment to securing the former prime
minister’s release.
“My
fellow members, we have never forgotten the struggle to defend our comrade, who
is also our leader and who remains behind bars.
“As I
explained during the president’s briefing yesterday, our fight to defend Datuk
Seri Najib has never ceased. If anyone still questions our commitment, the
party’s stance remains unwavering.
“Although
some have questioned the affidavit concerning the Titah Addendum, sworn by me
and Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy regarding the execution of Najib’s remaining sentence
through house arrest, it serves as proof that our commitment has never wavered.
God willing, we will not stop until Bossku receives justice,” he said today
during his opening speech at Umno’s annual general assembly.
Source: malaymail.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2024/08/23/zahid-umno-will-not-stop-until-bossku-najib-receives-justice/147954
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Africa
Sahel:
Security Council must call out “Ukraine's support for terrorism” - Burkina,
Mali and Niger
23rd
August 2024
Burkina
Faso, Mali and Niger have petitioned the president of the UN Security Council
to denounce what they call the Ukrainian government's “open support for
international terrorism” in the Sahel.
A letter
dated August 19 and signed by the envoys to the UN of the three Sahelian
countries was released on Tuesday (Aug. 20).
The move
follows recent comments by Ukrainian officials who said that Kyiv had played a
role in attacks by separatist rebels in Tinzawaten, northeastern Mali.
Andriy
Yusov, a spokesperson for Ukraine's military spy agency, mentioned on
television that Malian rebels received the "necessary" information to
carry out the attack.
READ
MORE: Diplomatic fallout: Niger and Ukraine sever ties over recent remarks
In late
July, Tuareg rebels claimed responsibility for the losses inflicted on the
Malian armed forces. They claimed killing at least 84 Russian Wagner
mercenaries and 47 Malian soldiers.
Andriy
Yusov later on retracted his remarks.
In the
letter sent to the UN security Council president, the foreign ministers of the
Alliance of the Sahel States (AES) countries are urging the Security Council to
act to prevent new subversive and destabilizing actions.
They
said the comments by Ukrainian officials some states play in the expansion of
terrorism in the Sahel.
The
United Nations Charter gives the Security Council primary responsibility for
maintaining international peace and security.
Source: africanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.africanews.com/2024/08/22/sahel-security-council-must-call-out-ukraines-support-for-terrorism-burkina-mali-and-niger/
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Kumuyi
urges Christian, Muslim collaboration for nation’s growth
23rd
August 2024
The
General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church, Pastor William Kumuyi,
has called on Christians and Muslims in the country to ignore religious
segregation and collaborate to change Nigeria for the better.
He
stressed the need for the adherents of the two religions to see each other as
people created by God who must take positive steps to lay a solid foundation
for a better society.
He
stated this at the inauguration ceremony of the Change Makers International
Conference, in Akure, the Ondo State capital, on Thursday.
The
Change Makers Conference was inaugurated in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, last
week.
Speaking
through the Ondo State Overseer of the church, Pastor Jacob Asubiojo, the
cleric said the conference was not just a gathering of like-minded individuals,
but a meeting to show that we needed one another in setting goals and
collectively achieving the desired vision.
“We must
understand that this is a paradigm shift from what we, either as Christians,
Muslims or other faith adherents had known.
“It is a
true call to the purpose of God for mankind, beyond religiosity, denominations
and ethnicity.
“This is
an all-important and unusual call where we would not see ourselves either as
Christians or as Muslims but as a people created by God that must take positive
steps to lay a solid foundation for a better society and indeed a better
world,” Kumuyi said.
The
Deputy Governor, Mr Olayide Adelami, who was represented by his Chief of Staff,
Mr Ademola Falohun, said there was a need for collective efforts by Nigerians
to create a conducive environment for all.
“Let’s
unite, irrespective of our religion. This is for the development of this nation
and we must speak with one voice and be united,” he said.
The Ondo
State Chairman of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Pastor Joshua
Opayinka, commended Kumuyi for the initiative, saying it would further promote
love and unity among Nigerians.
“This
move is good and we pray it succeeds. We should love our neighbours, it is a
newborn idea and it will grow. The move comes from a high personality. The
initiative would bring love and unity to our society,” he said.
The
Chairman of the League of Imams in Ondo State, Alhaji Ahmed Aladesawe,
represented by Alhaji Bashir Moshood, said Nigeria was facing social, economic
and tribalism challenges today because “we are not united and we can only
overcome these challenges if we are united and speak with one voice.
“Love
your neighbour, regardless of your religious background. A complete believer
must love their neighbours and love himself. Let’s be united, drop our tribal
ethnic and religious biases to move the country forward and achieve the needed
development.”
Source: punchng.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://punchng.com/kumuyi-urges-christian-muslim-collaboration-for-nations-growth/
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Nigerian
Army Investigates Alleged Killing Of Civilians, 100 Cattle In Kaduna
22 August 2024
Ikenna
Ngere
The
Nigerian Army has initiated an investigation into allegations that soldiers
were involved in the killing of three civilians and over 100 cattle during an
operation in Sabon Birnin village, Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
According
to The Punch, individuals dressed in army uniforms, believed to be soldiers,
allegedly attacked the Sabon Birnin Daji cattle market on Sunday afternoon,
leading to the death of three people and the destruction of over 100 cows.
Witnesses
claimed that the soldiers opened fire on the animals, causing chaos as traders
fled for safety.
One
resident, Shehu Sabon Birni, described the aftermath: “The dead animals are
scattered in the market, causing an offensive odour, making life unpleasant.
“It was
a horrific scene when the soldiers arrived at the market, some of them on
motorcycles, and started shooting the animals. Two people were killed in the
chaos.
“Now,
over 100 dead cows are scattered throughout the market, and the nearby houses
are overwhelmed by the stench. We are still unsure why the soldiers took such
drastic action.”
Islamic
scholar Dr. Ahmad Gumi also commented on the incident in a video shared on his
Facebook page, stating, “Banditry has a cause. And this is part of it. Two
wrongs don’t make a right, especially when committed by those entrusted with
our protection.”
In
response, the Army’s Director of Public Relations, Major General Onyema Nwachukwu,
expressed condolences to the families affected and the Sabon Birni community.
He
assured that the incident would be thoroughly investigated, and any personnel
found responsible would face consequences.
Major
General Nwachukwu stated, “The attention of the Nigerian Army has been drawn to
a disturbing news report with gory pictures/video footages published in some
mainstream and social media platforms alleging that troops of 1 Division
annihilated 3 persons and some cattle during a recent operation at Sabon Birni
in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna state.
“While
the Nigerian Army wishes to sympathize with the Sabon Birni community and
families of the affected persons, we also wish to state that the allegation
will be thoroughly investigated and any personnel found culpable will be
appropriately sanctioned. It is also necessary to add that the NA, which is
constitutionally mandated to protect the lives and property of the citizenry,
can not tolerate doing otherwise.
“Accordingly,
the Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja has directed a thorough
investigation into the incident to establish the immediate and remote causes of
the incident and unravel those behind it.
“We
therefore appeal for calm and assure the general public that the outcome of the
investigation will also be made public.”
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2024/08/22/nigerian-army-investigates-alleged-killing-of-civilians-100-cattle-in-kaduna/
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Soldiers
Didn’t Invade Churches In Anambra – Army Clarifies
22
August 2024
Ikenna Ngere
The
Nigerian Army has refuted allegations that its personnel invaded churches and
dispersed congregations in Umunze, Orumba North Local Government Area, Anambra
State.
Reports
had circulated, particularly in some media outlets, that Catholic Churches in
the area were allegedly stormed by soldiers, causing panic among worshippers.
The
Director of Army Public Relations, Onyema Nwachukwu, responded to these claims
on Thursday, clarifying that the military conducted a cordon and search
operation in the vicinity, not an invasion of churches as reported.
Nwachukwu
explained that troops from the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army were acting on
intelligence that indicated assailants, who had previously attacked and killed
soldiers, were receiving medical treatment in a house near the church.
“During
the operation, the troops evacuated the people who were considered vulnerable
if a shootout ensued to avoid collateral damage.
“Basically
the cordon and search on the community was to enable the troops to effect the
arrest of some accomplices who escaped with gunshot wounds and blood stains
from the attack that killed two of our troops.
“Available
information indicated that they were receiving treatment within the locality
and the cordon was lifted after the search, but unfortunately the suspects had
already left the building to which they were traced.
“It is
most unfortunate that the operation took place on a Sunday,” Nwachukwu said.
He
further clarified that the purpose of the operation was to arrest accomplices
who had escaped with gunshot wounds from the earlier attack on the soldiers.
Unfortunately, the suspects had already fled the building by the time the
troops arrived.
Nwachukwu
acknowledged that it was unfortunate the operation took place on a Sunday, but
he emphasized that troop deployment in Umunze was necessary due to the rising
cases of kidnapping and ransom demands by criminals in the area.
“The
troops will continue to ensure the safety of all the citizens,” he added.
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2024/08/22/soldiers-didnt-invade-churches-in-anambra-army-clarifies/
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Edo Records
129 Homicide, Cult-Related Cases In Two Months – Obaseki
22
August 2024
Ikenna Ngere
The Edo
State Government has reported a total of 129 cases of homicide and cult-related
incidents over a two-month period.
Governor
Godwin Obaseki revealed these figures during a press briefing held after the
monthly Security Council meeting at the Government House in Benin City.
According
to Obaseki, 79 cases were documented in June, while 50 were recorded in July.
He pointed out that this was a decrease from the alarming 129 cases recorded in
May alone.
The
security situation in the state was evaluated by a special task force led by
the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS). This task force was
established in May 2024 to address and mitigate the rising cult-related
violence in the state.
“We just
finished the Security Council meeting where we reviewed the security situation
in Edo State.
“We used
the opportunity to also review our monthly incidence reports and observed that
the incidence of cultism and homicide have reduced drastically since we set up
the Committee on Cultism,” Obaseki stated.
He
reminded the press that the committee was formed in response to a surge in
criminal activities in May, with 129 cases of crime that month, largely driven
by cultism, homicide, and drug-related offenses.
“Since
that Committee swung into action, we have seen remarkable success. The
incidence dropped from 129 in May to 79 in June and to a further 50 incidents
in July. August till date, we have also seen a similar trend,” the governor
added.
Obaseki
also mentioned that numerous arrests have been made and assured that the Edo
State Government would soon begin prosecuting the suspects.
He
expressed confidence that, based on the evidence collected so far, the state
would be able to secure convictions against those arrested.
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2024/08/22/edo-records-129-homicide-cult-related-cases-in-two-months-obaseki/
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Top PDP
Chieftain Defects To APC In Kano
23
August 2024
Richard Ogunsile
A
chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kano State, Alhaji Abdullahi
Ali, known as Alin Kano, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Naija
News reports that Alin Kano was received into the nation’s ruling party on
Thursday by the Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin.
Alin
Kano recognized as a significant grassroots politician from Dawakin Kudu Local
Government Area within the Kano South Senatorial District, transitioned to the
APC at Senator Barau’s office in the National Assembly, Abuja.
Senator
Barau commended Alin Kano, who holds the traditional title of Garkuwan Tsakuwa,
for his dedication and integrity as a politician, emphasizing his commitment to
advancing the interests of youth and students at both the national and local
levels.
“His
defection strengthens our party, especially in Dawakin Kudu and Kano South,”
Barau stated, adding that Alin Kano’s move significantly boosts the APC.
Alin
Kano expressed that his choice to affiliate with the APC was motivated by his
enduring respect for Senator Barau and the senator’s significant contributions
and assistance throughout Kano and the Northern region.
Naija
News reports that the event was graced by prominent individuals, such as the
Minority Leader of the Kano State House of Assembly, Hon. Labaran Abdul Madari,
and the Special Adviser to the President on Community Engagement for the North
West, Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai.
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2024/08/23/top-pdp-chieftain-defects-to-apc-in-kano/
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Fuel
Hoarding: Swing Into Action Immediately – Gov Adeleke Tells State Task Force
23
August 2024
Justina Otio
The
Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke has urged marketers of fuel across the
state to desist from hoarding the petroleum product.
He
warned that such an act would compound the problem of fuel scarcity.
He
cautioned against creating artificial scarcity as he disclosed that the Task
Force led by his Chief of Staff will monitor the activities of the Premium
Motor Spirit (PMS) sellers in the state.
Speaking
via a statement by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed on Thursday, the governor
noted that nobody should exploit others with the current realities in Nigeria.
He said,
“I urge petrol retailers and marketers not to hoard petrol products. They need
to support the people by not exploiting the situation for personal gain.
“The
State Task Force is to swing into action immediately. We must engage the fuel
marketers. The pain of our people must not be compounded.”
Also,
Adeleke ordered government agencies to expedite the implementation of programs
and policies on food security, internal security, minimum wage, fuel
affordability, and more.
According
to him “I am committed to implementing our commitments, especially those
arising from the recent national protests, as they relate to issues within our
mandate. We are passionate about advancing our welfare agenda, which remains
the top priority in our governance programs.
“It is
in that vein that I hereby direct the Ministry of Agriculture and the Food
Security Action Committee to commence the implementation process without
further delay. We must roll out action plans with specific timelines to achieve
the goals of food access, farm security, and food affordability.”
Source: naijanews.com
Please click the following URL to read
the text of the original Story
https://www.naijanews.com/2024/08/23/fuel-hoarding-swing-into-action-immediately-gov-adeleke-tells-state-task-force/
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URL: https://newageislam.com/islamic-world-news/islam-muslims-contrary-new-delhi-donation/d/133020