Friday, April 26, 2014
Majority Leader in the National Assembly Aden Duale (C) during prayers at KICC during the first Annual Islamic Conference on April 26, 2014. PHOTO | DENISH OCHIENG NATION MEDIA GROUP
Muslim clerics from around the world have urged local religious leaders to reach out to the youth and deter them from falling into the trap of radicalisation.
At the first Annual Islamic Conference in Nairobi on Saturday attended by thousands of Muslim faithful, the clerics said the core message of Islam had been corrupted by a few individuals posing as Sheikhs with the intent of turning the youth to violence.
“Many in the world have misunderstood and abused the message of Prophet Muhammad. That is why we call on all local teachers to refresh the people’s understanding of the lifestyle and teachings of the Prophet,” said Sheikh Ahmed Hameed.
London based Muslim scholar and Imam Wasim Kempson said Prophet Muhammad is “the most misunderstood individual” in modern times but this is not a reason to respond with violence and say “off with the heads” of those who insult the Prophet.
“We are emotional beings, and someone who insults the Prophet is seen as someone who has insulted your mother. But we should practice restraint and avoid knee-jerk reactions. We should respond in a way that reflects and demonstrates the good nature of the Prophet,” said Imam Hameed.
National Assembly Majority Leader Aden Duale who also attended the conference said that a small group of false teachers had managed to grab media attention and propagate false stereotypes about the religion and those who practice it.
“Islam stands for peace, tolerance and co-existence, and none of these radical Sheikhs seem to be preaching this message. It is really unfortunate that our sisters’ mode of dressing (the hijab) is now being seen as a security risk,” said Duale.
The conference comes at a time when tensions are running high in the country after a series of terrorist attacks that led to heightened security and the arrest of hundreds of suspects.
Security was tight at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) venue with armed police and GSU officers patrolling the area.
Those attending the event – which included both Muslims (paying a fee of Sh1,000) and non-Muslims (entering free) – had to go through two security screenings before being allowed into the tent.
The conference which was attended by more than 2,000 people tackled topics such as how Muslims may live as a minority in harmony, tolerance and peace especially in Kenya.
Accompanying Duale was Mandera Senator Billow Kerrow and Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan among other political leaders.