PRESS STATEMENT 
(for immediate release)

 

The Jamiatul Ulama South Africa (JUSA) has in the past and on several occasions, called for the importance of adherence to the measures and lockdown regulations that have been effected in order to contain the spread of Covid-19 coronavirus disease. To this end, JUSA specifically, called for the suspension of congregational prayers which the majority of Muslims have heeded.

 

The news that some Muslims have been congregating in various places, in contravention of the national lockdown measures, is disturbing. We therefore renew our appeal to all, to adhere to the regulations, respecting the law as well as the officers that have been ordered to enforce the lockdown.

 

In the spirit of Ramadan which teaches us the value of self-restraint, let us show our discipline by abiding by regulations that are for the common good of us all.

 

We shall have no one but ourselves to blame, when we keep defying the law and are taken to task for the violations that do not only reflect badly on our conduct but also show disrespect for the rest of the citizens that are forgoing their own preferences, in order to abide by the regulations that are meant to keep us and all those around us, safe from this highly contagious disease.

 

Meanwhile, JUSA welcomes the statement issued by the national police spokesperson, Brigadier Vishnu Naidoo, in which he has indicated the South African Police Service (SAPS) will investigate the identity, in order to discipline the suspected officer who insulted the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) at a prayer place, now understood to be a location in Mpumalanga. In the statement released to all media houses, Brigadier Naidoo has said:

 

The comment made about Prophet Mohammed, which can be heard at the end of the Video, is rather unfortunate and it is unacceptable that someone could make such an utterance. Therefore, the SAPS management has directed that this matter too be investigated and the person/s who made the comment about the Prophet be identified and brought to book.

 

Furthermore, Minister of Police, Mr Bheki Cele’s comment that the utterances by the said suspected officer is “sacrilege” is both reassuring and encouraging since it captures the essence of a Muslim’s hurt.

 

JUSA acknowledges the immense pressure under which our uniformed men and women are working. We commend all those officers, who in spite of such pressure, continue to carry out their duties, while maintaining a non-aggressive composure and respect for all citizens.

 

It is our pledge to continue to advocate for the steps that will help keep our communities and South Africa safe for all.

Issued by:

 

E.I. Bham (Moulana)
Secretary General

 

26 April 2020