Press Statement - Passing Of Comrade Jessie Duarte

Press Statement - Kashmir

Apartheid, the abhorrent system of oppression that South Africa was known for is history. However, people in some parts of the world still suffer under the yoke of oppression, are denied the right to self-determination and have their human rights violated daily. Such is the case with the people of Kashmir who are suffering under the jackboot of the extremist Modi led Indian government.

The people of South Africa, having recently emerged from an oppressive past, know racist oppression when they see it. They know very well what human rights violations look like. They know that what is happening in Kashmir is a brutal oppression of and denial of the human dignity of a people by a government that does not have a legitimate claim to the land of Kashmir.

The Muslim Youth Movement of South Africa calls on the United Nations, the international community and all justice and freedom loving people of the world to raise their voices in condemnation of the Indian government for the abuses of the human rights of the people of Kashmir. This must be followed by decisive action that will put an end to the impunity of the Indian government.

We further call on the South African government to break its silence on the issue and to draw inspiration from the international solidarity that helped to end apartheid. Failure to do so will be a betrayal of the values upon which South Africa is built.

The people of Kashmir must be assured that the youth of South Africa hears their cries of agony and are in solidarity with them. We are in full support of their legitimate struggle for freedom and justice. In commemorating International Kashmir Solidarity Day, we pledge to use every available avenue to make the world aware of the plight of the people of Kashmir and to appeal to the conscience of humanity to act.

Thandile Kona

MYM President

Press Statement - Passing of Ebrahim Ismail Ebrahim

The Muslim Youth Movement of South Africa has learnt with sadness of the passing of Ebrahim Ismail Ebrahim, a struggle veteran, a seasoned diplomat and a lifelong activist.s a young activist, Ebrahim involved himself in the struggle against the evil system of apartheid and for that he paid dearly, including with imprisonment on Robben Island and persecution.

As a deputy minister of the then foreign affairs, Ebrahim played a pivotal role in shaping South African foreign policy and was at the forefront of the project of state building immediately after the 1994 first democratic elections.

His connection to the MYM was cemented when he addressed, as a guest of honour, the MYM's 40th anniversary gala dinner in Durban. On that day, he stressed the importance of social activism in the project of nation building.

A gentle man with a quiet demeanour, his immense contribution to and sacrifices for the shaping of present day democratic South Africa should not go unnoticed. Although we mourn his death, we should celebrate his life and reflect upon it.

We pray to Allah that He comfort his family, friends and comrades. May Allah grant Ebrahim a place in paradise reserved for those who struggled in His path.

Thandile Kona

MYM President

084 422 9336

Press Statement - Shootings at New Zealand Mosque

The Muslim Youth Movement of South Africa has received with shock the news of the senseless killing of devotees at a mosque in New Zealand. This crime against humanity is a consequence of the polarizing and discriminatory language and actions of many leaders around the world. Their words and actions only serve to make the world an unsafe place for all humanity.

We send our condolences and prayers to the families of those who needlessly lost their lives in this terrible act of violence. We also stand in solidarity with the Muslims of New Zealand and all peace and justice loving of the world.

We commend the law enforcement authorities of New Zealand for their swift action in capturing some of the alleged perpetrators. It is our hope that the remaining ones will be captured soon and brought to book.

We also pray to Allah to ease their pain and sorrow at this time of bereavement. 

May Allah grant the deceased a special place in paradise.

Thandile Kona

MYM President

084 422 9336