A Defunct Education System and it's Revival.

Op-ed:

A Defunct Education System and it's Revival.

By Umar Abdullah.

Date: Friday 18th September 2020

I'm appalled by the state at which our education system has declined. A country which once boasted of an education system second to none now leaves one to wonder, where did we go wrong. It is quite obvious no due diligence was done with respect to the future of education in this country, using online platforms as opposed to an already overcrowding of classrooms and a diminished standard of teaching techniques to attract the attention of students.

Imagine every university lecturer is mandated to qualify in online teaching but it's not mandatory for pre-school, primary, and secondary school teachers. Now that COVID-19 is likened to the proverbial "monkey on our backs", it is absolutely clear how unprepared we were. And for those who prefer the response "We never expected a pandemic of this nature", is living in denial, because far too long we have been bombarded with advanced technology in the field of teaching and learning but refused to advance our thinking. This " donkey politics" approach to education by this government became more apparent when they squashed the "laptop program" introduced and implemented by the Kamla Administration. This program would have allowed for further innovative solutions to teaching and learning as it would have open a door into the new millennial age, where it would have given us the advantage before the onset of this pandemic.

Now that the Ministry of Education has been caught "sleeping on the job", a lot of homes have been disrupted, production in the workplace has declined and students are disenfranchised as a result. The government needs to seriously address this matter with urgency.

PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED

Students and their parents are frustrated and overwhelmed since there was no assessment done into whether or not homes had connectivity, or were equipped with the necessary devices, and whether or not students and parents had training in the use of online platforms. Some homes don't have connectivity let alone devices. Parents are often left with the option of data usage which is never reliable and very expensive and those without devices are forced to buy one of the knock off brands that are offered at exuberant prices. These knock off brands don't have the capacity to work these platforms.

A lot of homes have only one device and a number of students. It's impossible to share one device when all children are required to sign in. Many of the times this one device is a phone that may not have the memory and the capacity needed for such a task.

The Internet providers themselves are ill-equipped to facilitate all these online users. Video and online teaching platforms would require greater upload speeds and lower download speeds as opposed to what is being offered presently; greater download speeds and slower upload speeds. Under the present offerings by network providers, the household owner would now be required to provide advanced high-speed connectivity and this can only mean one thing; 5G. This obviously would come at a higher cost. Where is the money going to come from, when already they are faced with job cuts and losses, reduced income, and a failed government assistance program where persons are yet to receive relief grants promised to them. Not to mention the health risk that comes with it.

Schools are using different platforms to conduct classes, these range from the Blackboard Collaborate Online Tuition Software, and platforms such as Zoom, Google Class, and Microsoft Team. This creates even greater confusion as children from the same home go to different schools. Zoom being the simplest of all is a paid platform and is often the platform of choice by the higher learning institutions, except UWI which uses the Blackboard Collaborate Online Tuition Software. Early childhood, primary and secondary schools do not have the capacity to pay hence their choice of free platforms. These platforms are periodically bombarded with ads thus creating a distraction which would in turn make learning difficult.

Teachers have not been trained and are refusing to be trained, to use these platforms, and are learning "on the go" together with the parent and child. This affects the relationship between the teacher and child, as the child would see the teacher as incompetent and would lose respect as a result. Some teachers also do not have devices and proper connectivity hence further compounding the problem.

This phenomenon has caused schooling to take on a new dimension. In Trinidad and Tobago, every home now has become a school; rooms that once provided a comforting space now has taken on the resemblance of a classroom, with parents acting as teachers. Should there be an expectation that the responsibility which was exclusive to the school whilst students are in attendance would now be shared by the Ministry of Education and the parents? With parents having to devote more time away from their jobs and other responsibilities, should they be compensated or given some sort of incentives? These newly formed schools are now geographically located in very close proximity to Bars, Pubs, and Gambling Dens. How would the law which states that these establishments cannot be in close proximity to a school or learning institution be applied? These are the state of affairs that has now come into existence due to a lack of planning, foresight, and proper decision making.

SOLUTION

The government should have seen this coming and not blame COVID-19 for their own incompetence. The 5G infrastructure is already in place and our service providers are just waiting on us to demand higher speeds before the 5G technology is rolled out. (you're) "damned if you do and damned if you don't", 5G is here to stay, whether you like it or not. This was their plan all along. Create a pandemic, shut down the schools, forcing online teaching, and increase the demand for higher speeds.

Here are some suggestions as to how the government can solve this issue.

Subsidize the cost of devices for middle-income families and provide devices free of charge, for low income and unemployed families at selected retail and wholesale outlets offering particular brands only. The Head of the household can be asked to produce at least one form of ID and a payslip. Those unemployed can be asked to produce in addition to their ID, a recommendation letter from a recognized institution or a recognized religious body.

The government, in conjunction with selected Internet providers, can allow schools free access to the internet of the required bandwidth; i.e. higher upload speeds rather than the lower upload speeds; which is being offered now, between the hours of 8 am to 3 pm (Duration of School). This can be done through a portal only accessible by the teachers by using a special teacher/school ID, using one specific online platform, such as the Blackboard collaborate online tuition platform, which can be brought by the government with multiple licenses and given to the schools. By using Wireless Local Area Networking (WLAN), the teacher would be able to teach and provide content to the students without the student requiring an internet connection. This can be done using the already installed 5G infrastructure from the Access Point Main Antenna and fed wirelessly to the students in any part of Trinidad and Tobago. These Access Point Antennas have a range of up to 25kms.

Presently using the 4G infrastructure the capacity of a CAT 5 cable is 100 MB per/sec and a CAT 6 cable has a capacity of 1000 MB per/sec which can service between 500 - 500,000 students. The difference with using the 5G infrastructure is that it has a capacity of 3000 MB per/sec. It is becoming more apparent, that this is a planned strategy by world governments to force households to run begging for higher speeds, hence the reason why 5G technology will be offered. We can circumvent the wide use of this 5G technology by using WLAN for a lot less, across the board.

The government can allow students who fall out of this bracket to attend normal school. The numbers in class would be reduced considerably, there should be no interchanging between classes and strict COVID-19 protocols should be observed. These classes can then be streamed online using the preferred platform to benefit those students with devices at home.

In treating with this new dynamic, the government must now rethink its strategies and policies. The education act must be revisited and amended to reflect the new normal as it relates to education and learning. The act must address these newly created schools (homes) and the shared responsibility that parents, now have with respect to the mandate and responsibly of the Ministry of Education. Parents must be compensated and a support mechanism must be put in place now that they have taken on and doing half the work teachers and schools are required to do according to the act.

This administration must stand guided by these recommendations. The government must seriously commit themselves to understand the plight of its citizens in achieving competence in our education system as the future of our beautiful nation lies in the hands of our youth and future generations.

Umar Abdullah
Head of Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front)
Tel: +18687870765 or +18683656253

Media Release: Amidst this COVID 19 PANDEMIC, Remember our Citizens Still Trapped in Syria and Iraq; Their Present Status: Stateless.

Media Release:

Re: Amidst this COVID 19 PANDEMIC, Remember our Citizens Still Trapped in Syria and Iraq; Their Present Status: Stateless.

In an article entitled "THE GREAT ESCAPE", authored by Anna Ramdass, and published in the Trinidad's Express, dated 22nd March 2020. It laments the horrendous journey of one of our nationals; Ijanaya Jacob-Brown, daughter of journalist and educator Debbie Jacob, in returning home amidst the COVID 19 Crisis. Ijanaya Jacob-Brown is quoted as saying:

“I couldn’t believe the lack of humanity Kenya Airways staff showed throughout this traumatizing process. They did not care what my situation was and was obscenely hostile. I cannot express the feeling of claustrophobia, panic, and stress I have experienced the past few days and will continue to feel until I arrive in my country. At least I am heading home to wait out this madness, this is a humanitarian mess of epic proportions and it is clear the world does not know how to handle this.”

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) prays that Ijanaya Jacob-Brown arrives safely home and is reunited with her family after her incubation period. Hers was a very traumatic ordeal and we can't help but wonder what others are going through especially those who are in worse situations.

One such people are our nationals who are still trapped in concentration camps across Syria and Iraq. These; our Citizens have been denied since 2017 long before this pandemic. And with the government's announcement to bring an amendment to the Anti-Terrorism Act in order to facilitate the return of these nationals, it seeks to delay the process of repatriation even further. Now with the restrictions on travel and travel bands leaves one to wonder what is going to become of our citizens who have been sufferings under very inhumane conditions, who are being beaten on a daily basis, who are being tortured and whose children are being snatched away and made into child soldiers. We sympathize with Ijanaya and the traumatic ordeal she has had to endure, at least with a Trinidad passport in her hands she knows she'll be home and reunited with her mother and family. What about those in Syria and Iraq who have been rendered Stateless by our government? Who has no idea and no hope of returning home?

Jacob's mom was reported to have said: “I’ve been very worried because she had to go through a lot of places to try and get back...all of a sudden you realize how many people, not just her but how many people are stranded and desperately trying to get home...”

“It’s scary and it’s heartbreaking and I assume that everybody feels like her..."

"... Desperately trying to get back home..." Imagine how desperate our nationals are who are trapped in Syria and Iraq...

“It’s scary and it’s heartbreaking..." Yes, indeed it is...

Considering our present circumstances, this is not a call for our government to repatriate our Citizens from Syria and Iraq now. But rather it's a call for our government to not forget about them and to do what they must to comfort them and to give them hope. This government needs to recognize and accept the many failures and inapt positions it has taken over their period of governance.

Amidst this COVID 19 EPIDEMIC. Just as how this Rowley administration was wrong when they didn't see it important to cancel the Carnival celebration even though they boosted being prepared since the end of January 2020. So too they were wrong not to repatriate our Citizens.

Just as how this Rowley-led government was wrong when they failed to issue a traveling band in February before the Carnival celebrations; which should have been canceled. So too they were wrong not to repatriate our Citizens.

Just as how this Rowley-led PNM administration is failing to see the prudence of increasing the incubation period from 14 days to 21 days, So too they have failed to see the importance of repatriating our Citizens before it's too late.

In the words of, Ijanaya Jacob-Brown: Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is saying the same about our nationals trapped in those concentration camps: “We can’t believe the lack of humanity the government of Trinidad and Tobago has shown throughout this traumatizing process. This government don't care what their situation is like, our government is obscenely hostile. We cannot but express the feeling of claustrophobia, panic and stress these people are experiencing since 2017 and will continue to feel until they return home. Unlike Ijanaya, they are not heading home anytime soon. This is a humanitarian mess of epic proportions and it is clear this government simply does not care.”

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) reiterates its commitment to supporting the government in all of its positive initiatives. We encourage and advise that they should try their endeavor best to be proactive not just in this current situation but in all such situations that relate to the best interest of the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.

For Immediate Release:
Date: March, 25th 2020

Umar Abdullah
Head of Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front)
Tel: +18687870765/+18683656253

In Commemoration of International Woman's Day 2020: Women in the Quran and the Sunnah

In Commemoration of International  Woman's Day 2020.

Women in the Quran and the Sunnah

In Islam, there is absolutely no difference between men and women as far as their relationship to Allah is concerned, as both are promised the same reward for good conduct and the same punishment for evil conduct. The Quran says:

" …And they (women) have rights (over their husbands as regards living expenses, etc.) similar (to those of their husbands) over them (as regards obedience and respect, etc.) to what is reasonable, but men have a degree (of responsibility) over them. And Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise." [Noble Quran 2:228]

The Quran, in addressing the believers, often uses the expression, 'believing men and women' to emphasize the equality of men and women regarding their respective duties, rights, virtues and merits. It says:

" Verily, the Muslims (those who submit to Allah in Islam) men and women, the believers men and women (who believe in Islamic Monotheism), the men and the women who are obedient (to Allah), the men and women who are truthful (in their speech and deeds), the men and the women who are patient (in performing all the duties which Allah has ordered and in abstaining from all that Allah has forbidden), the men and the women who are humble (before their Lord Allah), the men and the women who give Sadaqat (i.e. Zakat, and alms, etc.), the men and the women who observe Saum (fast) (the obligatory fasting during the month of Ramadan, and the optional Nawafil fasting), the men and the women who guard their chastity (from illegal sexual acts) and the men and the women who remember Allah much with their hearts and tongues (while sitting, standing, lying, etc. for more than 300 times extra over the remembrance of Allah during the five compulsory congregational prayers) or praying extra additional Nawafil prayers of night in the last part of night, etc.) Allah has prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward (i.e. Paradise). " [Noble Quran 33:35] 

This clearly contradicts the assertion of the Christian Fathers that women do not possess souls and that they will exist as sexless beings in the next life. The Quran says that women have souls in the same way as men and will enter Paradise if they do good:

" Enter Paradise, you and your wives, in happiness." [Noble Quran 43:70]

" Whoever works righteousness, whether male or female, while he (or she) is a true believer (of Islamic Monotheism) verily, to him We will give a good life (in this world with respect, contentment and lawful provision), and We shall pay them certainly a reward in proportion to the best of what they used to do (i.e. Paradise in the Hereafter). " [Noble Quran 16:97]

The Quran admonishes those men who oppress or ill-treat women:

" O you who believe! You are forbidden to inherit women against their will, and you should not treat them with harshness, that you may take away part of the Mahr you have given them, unless they commit open illegal sexual intercourse. And live with them honourably. If you dislike them, it may be that you dislike a thing and Allah brings through it a great deal of good." [Noble Quran 4:19]

Because before the advent of Islam the pagan Arabs used to bury their female children alive, make women dance naked near the Ka'bah during their annual fairs, and treat women as mere chattels and objects of sexual pleasure possessing no rights or position whatsoever, these teachings of the Noble Quran were revolutionary. Unlike other religions, which regarded women as being possessed of inherent sin and wickedness and men as being possessed of inherent virtue and nobility, Islam regards men and women as being of the same essence created from a single soul. The Quran declares:

"O mankind! Be dutiful to your Lord, who created you from a single person (Adam), and from him (Adam) He created his wife [Hawwa (Eve)], and from them both He created many men and women and fear Allah through Whom you demand your mutual (rights), and (do not cut the relations of) the wombs (kinship). Surely, Allah is Ever an All-Watcher over you." [Noble Quran 4:1]

The Prophet of Islam (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "Women are the twin halves of men." The Quran emphasizes the essential unity of men and women in a most beautiful simile:

"They are Libas [i.e. body cover, or screen, or Sakan, (i.e. you enjoy the pleasure of living with her - as in Verse 7:189) Tafsir At-Tabari], for you and you are the same for them. " [Noble Quran 2:187]

Just as a garment hides our nakedness, so do husband and wife, by entering the relationship of marriage, secure each other's chastity. The garment gives comfort to the body; so, does the husband find comfort in his wife's company and she in his. "The garment is the grace, the beauty, the embellishment of the body, so too are wives to their husbands as their husbands are to them." Islam does not consider woman "an instrument of the Devil", but rather the Quran calls her Muhsana - a fortress against Satan because a good woman, by marrying a man, helps him keep to the path of rectitude in his life. It is for this reason that marriage was considered by the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) as a most virtuous act. He said: "When a man marries, he has completed one half of his religion." He enjoined matrimony on Muslims by saying: "Marriage is part of my way and whoever keeps away from my way is not from me (i.e. is not my follower)." The Quran has given the reasons of marriage in the following words:

"And among His Signs is this, that He created for you wives from among yourselves, that you may find repose in them, and He has put between you affection and mercy. Verily, in that are indeed signs for a people who reflect." [Noble Quran 30:21]

The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) was full of praise for virtuous and chaste women. He said:

"The world and all things in the world are precious but the most precious thing in the world is a virtuous woman. He once told the future khalifah, 'Umar: "Shall I not inform you about the best treasure a man can hoard? It is a virtuous wife who pleases him whenever he looks towards her, and who guards herself when he is absent from her." 

On other occasions, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

"The best property a man can have is a remembering tongue (about Allah), a grateful heart and a believing wife who helps him in his faith." And again: "The world, the whole of it, is a commodity and the best of the commodities of the world is a virtuous wife."

Before the advent of Islam women were often treated worse than animals. The Prophet wanted to put a stop to all cruelties to women. He preached kindness towards them. He told the Muslims: "Fear Allah in respect of women." And: "The best of you are they who behave best to their wives." And: "A Muslim must not hate his wife, and if he be displeased with one bad quality in her, let him be pleased with one that is good." And: "The more civil and kind a Muslim is to his wife, the more perfect in faith he is."

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was most emphatic in enjoining upon Muslims to be kind to their women when he delivered his famous khutbah on the Mount of Mercy at Arafat in the presence of one hundred and twenty-four thousands of his Companions who had gathered there for the Hajj al-Wada (Farewell Pilgrimage). In it he ordered those present, and through them all those Muslims who were to come later, to be respectful and kind towards women. He said:

"Fear Allah regarding women. Verily you have married them with the trust of Allah, and made their bodies lawful with the word of Allah. You have got (rights) over them, and they have got (rights) over you in respect of their food and clothing according to your means."

In Islam, a woman is a completely independent personality. She can make any contract or bequest in her own name. She is entitled to inherit in her position as mother, as wife, as sister and as daughter. She has perfect liberty to choose her husband. The pagan society of pre-Islamic Arabia had an irrational prejudice against their female children whom they used to bury alive. The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) was totally opposed to this practice. He showed them that supporting their female children would act as a screen for them against the fire of Hell:

It is narrated by the Prophet's wife, Aiysha, that a woman entered her house with two of her daughters. She asked for charity but Aiysha could not find anything except a date, which was given to her. The woman divided it between her two daughters and did not eat any herself. Then she got up and left. When the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) came to the house, Aiysha told him about what had happened and he declared that when the woman was brought to account (on the Day of Judgment) about her two daughters they would act as a screen for her from the fires of Hell.

The worst calamity for a woman is when her husband passes away and, as a widow, the responsibility of maintaining the children falls upon her. In the Eastern World, where a woman does not always go out to earn her living, the problems of widowhood are indescribable. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) upheld the cause of widows. Most of his wives were widows. In an age when widows were rarely permitted to remarry, the Prophet encouraged his followers to marry them. He was always ready to help widows and exhorted his followers to do the same. Abu Hurayrah reported that the Prophet said: "One who makes efforts (to help) the widow or a poor person is like a Mujahid (warrior) in the path of Allah, or like one who stands up for prayers in the night and fasts in the day."

Woman as mother commands great respect in Islam. The Noble Quran speaks of the rights of the mother in many verses. It enjoins Muslims to show respect to their mothers and serve them well even if they are still unbelievers. The Prophet states emphatically that the rights of the mother are paramount. Abu Hurayrah reported that a man came to the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) and asked: "O Messenger of Allah, who is the person who has the greatest right on me with regards to kindness and attention?" He replied, "Your mother." "Then who?" He replied, "Your mother." "Then who?" He replied, "Your mother." "Then who?" He replied, "Your father."

In another tradition, the Prophet advised a believer not to join the war against the Quraish in defense of Islam, but to look after his mother, saying that his service to his mother would be a cause of his salvation. Mu'awiyah, the son of Jahimah, reported that Jahimah came to the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and said, "Messenger of Allah! I want to join the fighting (in the path of Allah) and I have come to seek your advice." He said, "Then remain in your mother's service, because Paradise is under her feet."

The Prophet's followers accepted his teachings and brought about a revolution in their social attitude towards women. They no longer considered women as mere chattels, but as an integral part of society. For the first-time women were given the right to have a share in inheritance. In the new social climate, women rediscovered themselves and became highly active members of society rendering useful service during the wars which the pagan Arabs forced on the emerging Muslim Ummah. They carried provisions for the soldiers, nursed them, and even fought alongside them if it was necessary. It became a common sight to see women helping their husbands in the fields, carrying on trade and business independently, and going out of their homes to satisfy their needs.

Aiysha reported that Saudah bint Zam'ah went out one night. 'Umar saw her and recognized her and said, "By God, O Saudah, why do you not hide yourself from us?" She went back to the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and told him about it while he was having supper in her room, and he said, "It is permitted by Allah for you to go out for your needs." The predominant idea in the teachings of Islam about men and women is that a husband and wife should be full-fledged partners in making their home a happy and prosperous place, that they should be loyal and faithful to one another, and genuinely interested in each other's welfare and the welfare of their children. A woman is expected to exercise a humanizing influence over her husband and to soften the sternness inherent in his nature. A man is enjoined to educate the women in his care so that they cultivate the qualities in which they, by their very nature, excel.

These aspects were much emphasized by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). He exhorted men to marry women of piety and women to be faithful to their husbands and kind to their children. He said:

"Among my followers the best of men is those who are best to their wives, and the best of women are those who are best to their husbands. To each of such women is set down a reward equivalent to the reward of a thousand martyrs. Among my followers, again, the best of women is those who assist their husbands in their work, and love them dearly for everything, save what is a transgression of Allah's laws."

Once Mu'awiyah asked the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), "What are the rights that a wife has over her husband?" The Prophet replied, "Feed her when you take your food, give her clothes to wear when you wear clothes, refrain from giving her a slap on the face or abusing her, and do not separate from your wife, except within the house." Once a woman came to the Prophet with a complaint against her husband. He told her: "There is no woman who removes something to replace it in its proper place, with a view to tidying her husband's house, but that Allah sets it down as a virtue for her. Nor is there a man who walks with his wife together, but that Allah sets it down as a virtue for him; and if he puts his arm round her shoulder in love, his virtue is increased tenfold." Once he was heard praising the women of the tribe of Quraish, "...because they are the kindest to their children while they are infants and because they keep a careful watch over the belongings of their husbands."

The Shari'ah regards women as the spiritual and intellectual equals of men. The main distinction it makes between them is in the physical realm based on the equitable principle of fair division of labor. It allots the more strenuous work to the man and makes him responsible for the maintenance of the family. It allots the work of managing the home and the upbringing and training of children to the woman, work which has the greatest importance in the task of building a healthy and prosperous society.

It is a fact, however, that sound administration within the domestic field is impossible without a unified policy. For this reason, the Shari'ah requires a man, as head of the family, to consult with his family and then to have the final say in decisions concerning it. In doing so he must not abuse his prerogative to cause any injury to his wife. Any transgression of this principle involves for him the risk of losing the favor of Allah, because his wife is not his subordinate but she is, to use the words of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), 'the queen of her house', and this is the position a true believer is expected to give his wife. In contrast to these enlightened teachings of Islam in respect of women, Western talk of women's liberation or emancipation is a disguised form of exploitation of her body, deprivation of her honor, and degradation of her soul!                      

Umar Abdullah

Head of Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front)

Email: waajihatulislaamiyyah@gmail.com

Tel: +1 (868) 787-0765 or +1 (868) 365-6253

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah’s (The Islamic Front’s) Objections to The Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill, 2020. Scrap This Bill and Repatriate our Citizens Now Before It’s too late.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah’s (The Islamic Front’s) Objections to The Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill, 2020. Scrap This Bill and 

Repatriate our Citizens Now Before It’s too late.

Date: February, 13th 2020

Prepared by: Umar Abdullah

Head of Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front)

Tel: +18687870765/+18683656253

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is appalled by the incessant reluctance by this government to repatriate our women and children trapped in Syria and Iraq. We view the new proposed Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill, 2020 as another attempt to delay the process. It's repulsive, unconstitutional and repressive. Other countries; Britain, Denmark, Australia, Canada, America, Chechnya, France; who were one of the first countries to ban the wearing of the Hijab, and Nigeria all have started to repatriate their citizens. None of these countries instituted laws to facilitate this. Netherlands and Germany both were ordered by their courts to repatriate their women and children. Again, no new legislation was enacted in these countries. Why then does this government feel the need to enact new laws to facilitate the return of its citizens? 

The UN investigators called for thousands of children of jihadists who fought for the Islamic State group to be repatriated from Syria. The UN Commission of Inquiry on Syria said in a report that the children were in a “particularly precarious” situation since they often lacked official papers.

“This, in turn, jeopardizes their rights to a nationality, hinders family reunification processes and puts them at a higher risk of exploitation and abuse,” the report said. Commission chair Paulo Pinheiro said the detention of children with adults was “a terrible violation”, urging the relevant governments to take action to stop this.

“All this delay and not taking these children from these prisons is outrageous. It’s a scandal,” he said.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is questioning the motives of this government, whether or not they have fallen prey to the American rhetoric as was amplified by Col. Claudia Carrizales, chief of the U.S. Embassy’s Military Liaison Office when she said in July of 2019; nationals of the country who are in detention in Syria and Iraq are expected to return in a year.

Carrizales questioned if the country, government, and citizens are “ready to deal with that kind of threat.”

She made the comment while delivering the keynote address at a business forum hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce of Trinidad and Tobago at the Hilton Hotel, Port-of-Spain.

Carrizales first spoke about the attempted 2018 Carnival terror plot, which she said was not a hoax.

“If there is anyone in this room that does not believe that the Carnival threat of 2018 was real, then you are hiding under a rock,” she said.

The police arrested 13 individuals for the terror plot, who were later released with­out charge.

Prior to this, the stage was already being set and our security apparatus was already being prepped when on the heels of the 2005 dustbin bomb outside Maraj and Sons Jewellers on Frederick Street, POS, for which a Mossad Agent, was responsible. Like a knee-jerk reaction, a voice echoed, "Agitate the Muslims to react" This was the mandate given to our law enforcement officers, by the United States' Anti-terrorism Assistance Program (ATA) as training for our officers began. This later formed the bases for the creation of 'the Terrorism Interdiction Unit'.

In light of all this, there can only be one objective and that is to set apart the government and the Muslim Community and to create division amongst the Muslims. Clearly, from this new proposed Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill, 2020 one can see the American agenda at play. This bill is riddled with vague and broad parameters, obvious discrimination and abuse of power. It’s a key to fully opening the doors for a foreign power to come in and interfere with our sovereignty and international affairs.

The bill starts off by saying "this Act shall have an effect even though inconsistent with sections 4 and 5 of the Constitution." Immediately it attacks: 

• Our Right to life and liberty

• Our Right to equality before the law

• Our Right to respect for private and family life

• Our Right to equal treatment from state institutions

• Our Right to the expression of political views

• Our Right to education 

• Our Right to freedom of movement

• Our Right to freedom of religion

• Our Right to freedom of expression

• Our Right to freedom of assembly

• Our Right to freedom of the press

Except as otherwise stated in the Chapter, and Section 54 of the Constitution, no law may 'abrogate, abridge or infringe or authorize the abrogation, abridgement or infringement of any of the rights and freedoms hereinbefore recognized and declared'.

Under Section 5(2), Parliament may not impose 'cruel and unusual treatment or punishment' or authorize or effect the 'arbitrary detention, imprisonment or exile' of any person. 

Citizens also have the right to be 'promptly' informed of the reason for being arrested or detained (S5(2)(c)(i), and the right to a legal adviser of his/her own choice (S5(2)(c)(ii)).

Citizens have the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty and the right to a fair and public hearing by an independent and impartial tribunal. 

If the person does not speak English, he has the right to the assistance of an interpreter in any proceedings in which he is involved (S5(2)(g).

However, Section 6 of the Constitution says nothing in Section 4 and 5 will invalidate an existing law, any enactment to existing law, or enactment which alters an existing law but does not detract from any of the fundamental rights listed above. 

This bill has to be presented and debated in both the lower and upper houses. It may go before a Joint Select Committee. It will need no less than a three-fifths majority to have it passed and then ascended by the President. this could take weeks or even months. In the meanwhile, what is going to happen to our women and children who are trapped under horrible conditions in camps run by Militias? don't be fooled! The YPG, PYD and the SDF are all reincarnations of the PKK, a group that has been listed as a terrorist organization and recognized as such by the UN and the US. The US-funded these terrorist militia groups to fight against the Syrian Army and ISIS. Now they are running the camps. One of the militias who was second in command at one of the camps was asked by a visiting official to look the other way and allow for some of the children to be taken out. His response was what would they be given in return or what guarantees would they be promised. These militias ask for and accept hefty fines for the release of persons without travel documents. It is as though these persons have been kidnapped and held for ransom. Some of the latest reports reaching Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) speaks of extreme torture and beatings. There are cases of acute allergies, diarrhea, dehydration, and diseases every day. Children are being separated from their mothers and forced to fight on the battlefield and when the mothers resist, they are badly beaten while blindfolded. It is without doubt that the inhabitants of these camps are being used as shield to satisfy the political and economic agenda of these militia groups, while the world remains silent.

In 22P(2)(a) of the Bill, it refers to expediting the permit to return in cases where the Minister in consideration of the urgency of the situation may do so. The urgency is now! We can't afford to delay much longer. We need to extract these persons now before it’s too late. We don't need new legislation to do that.

In Part IIIB under the heading "RETURNEES AND FOREIGN TERRORIST FIGHTERS" It states "returnee" "means a person who is returning to Trinidad and Tobago from a geographical area where terrorist acts have occurred or are occurring and who is not charged for an offence." Are we to believe that due process was applied in the apprehension, arrest, and charging of these persons? What would you expect if a terrorist militia group is running the operations of these countries?

As we move on, we see where in S22H (a, b and c) the Minister of National Security is being given full autonomy in decisions to suspend or revoke travel documents. On who's advice? is this person or these persons qualified in giving such advice? On what grounds or by who's standards would this advice be given? These are questions that must be answered. S22H (1-5) seeks to usurp the authority of the Chief Immigration Officer and place the Minister of National Security in total control. In S22(3-5); where it says a person can apply to the Chief Immigration Officer for a cancellation of the suspension, it still has to be referred back to the Minister. Let us be reminded that the Minister of National Security is not independent and could very well be biased in his judgment and decision making. 

In cases where persons have to travel on legitimate business, study or for medical purposes, what would happen if their documents are suspended? They will now have to wait six (6) months to have it reviewed by the Chief Immigration Officer, where again it will have to be referred to the Minister. What if according to S22J (1) the person's travel documents are revoked? and now has to wait every twelve months according to S22J (2) to have it reviewed? This person's business may suffer a serious financial blow, a student's quest for knowledge will be crushed or if the person is suffering from some ailment, may die (May God Forbid). Under this New Amendment people so affected would not be able to reapply unless 5 years have passed. The Minister will find himself tied up in litigation for a very long time.

It has also been noted that persons whose travel documents have been suspended or revoked under this New Law, S22J (5); at the time of the suspension, maybe granted temporary journey - specific travel documents in order to return to Trinidad and Tobago.

This is not guaranteed and the person would become stateless. This too would subject those persons to the immigration laws of that country which would cause them to violate those laws. Under international law, it is illegal to deprive nationals of citizenship if to do so would leave them stateless.  

According to S22K (1) - (2) (a-d) even though a person is in possession of their travel documents, the person can receive Temporary Exclusion Orders. Unless a person is in possession of a permit to return or is deported, the Court may order that a temporary exclusion order be imposed on a person or a returnee, if the Minister "has reasonable grounds " to believe the person has committed a terrorist act. How is the Minister going to determine this? What are reasonable grounds? Where would the evidence come from? That the person poses a risk to the public. Again, what are reasonable grounds? This is purely an assumption that would not be based on facts. 

According to S22L (1) once the Minister believes that these conditions exist, he can make an application to the court for an order to impose a temporary exclusion order on the person or returnee. Again, here the Minister is given full autonomy without allowing persons legal counsel and an opportunity to defend themselves. This is evident in S22L (2) (a-c) where the court would consider the application in their absence, without being notified and without the opportunity to seek legal counsel and defend themselves. This is unfair and strikes at the very core of human rights. 

As we continue further, S22M (1) speaks of, once a person is served the exclusion order, it stays in effect for two (2) years and according to S22M (4) can go beyond two (2) years. What's alarming though is only when notice of its revocation is served, only then the order is revoked, (See SM (7)) unlike in the case of revocation of travel documents in S22L (2) (a-c) where the order is made without informing them and in their absence. This is indeed unconstitutional and unfair. Here again, persons can find themselves stranded and stateless. 

If persons are desirous of returning to Trinidad and Tobago according to S22N (1) would be required to fill out a form. We are curious as to how would these forms be acquired. Since the 31st of December 2019 when the Marijuana legislation went into effect, to date the Police has yet to get scales and ticket books for ganja offences. Are we to believe these forms would be made available to persons in Syria and Iraq? What is also baffling is according to SN (6) (a-c) must state the date and time of arrival, How and by what means would they journey to Trinidad and in what place would they arrive. Can one imagine the length of time all this information would take to sort out? 

All this can be avoided if the government could just simply provide travel documents and allow for the families here in Trinidad to purchase their tickets. Why the need for the long and drawn-out process?

According to SQ (2) (C), the Minister may revoke a permit if he no longer considers that the situation is Urgent. Just the mere fact these persons are in a hostile foreign land living under those horrible and treacherous conditions is urgent enough. Since 2017 the Minister was made aware of this situation. What type of government would use such delay tactics and excuses not to repatriate their citizens and rescue them from such inhumane conditions? What possibly could cause the Minister to draw such conclusions, that a matter of urgency no longer exists?

Again, in S22Q(2)(e), another oversight was made. Here it states the Minister may revoke a permit to return if he considers it to have been obtained by misrepresentation. Having to undergo such ordeal wouldn't these people do what is necessary to get back home even if it means they have to lie? How difficult are we making this process? wouldn't these people withhold information especially if they are of the belief what they revel would be held against them?

As we highlight these issues regarding Information and misrepresentation, we'd like to take a look at S22R (2) (a-c) (i-xvii), Here it refers to Obligations after returning to Trinidad and Tobago. "The Minister may, by notice, impose any or all of the permitted obligations on a person or returnee." The requirements listed under SS(2)SS(c)SS(vii, xv, xvii, and xx), begs the question who would this information be shared with and what guarantees are there that the information shared would remain confidential and the information given regarding those persons or entities would not lead to them be profiled and investigated which may lead to a number of complications, as have been reported to this organization, where one none Muslim national whilst attempting to renew her passport, she received a call from special branch asking why is she applying for a passport and to which country does she intends to travel. Since when in this country, you are not allowed to apply for a passport? without being intimidated by our National Security apparatus? This is an attempt to profile every person and or organization these returnees are in association with. 

Subject to S22T (1-7), persons returning to Trinidad and Tobago, "...shall be detained at a residence designated by the Minister by order...." ".... not exceeding two years." are these designated residences Jails, Homes or rehabilitative institutions? How would these persons be kept and monitored? and by whom? It goes on to state even though these detentions are subject for review after every six months by the Minister it can be lengthened for a further one year. Already our institutions are overwhelmed by a number of challenging cases. Who is going to be given the task of managing all of this? Are the one per cent fanciers going to be given these lucrative contracts like we have seen happen with the prison transport and the IDC?

Under S22W (2) a person can challenge the Minister and apply to the court to review his decision, as stated in SS (2) SS(a)SS(i-iv). How are these applications going to be made? by especially those outside of Trinidad and Tobago? through whom would this application be made? and who is going to fit the cost of this expense? Do these persons have any means of income? Why doesn't this Bill give the responsibility to the court in the first instance? or a body specially selected by the President of our Republic and task them with that responsibility? Why the Minister whom we all know to be partisan, biased and not impartial? Why not an independent body with no affiliations nor obligations, with no other mandate except to act in the best interest of the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago?

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) has reviewed the proposed Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2020. We have unanimously concluded the following: 

• This bill seeks to strip away our Freedom, Fundamental Rights, and privileges.

• This Bill is another attempt to delay the process of repatriation.

• This is an attempt to divide the Muslim Community.

• This is an attempt to anger some sectors of the Muslim Community and to agitate them to act against the government.

• There has been a huge oversight by the crafters of this Bill.

• Very little consideration was given to the negative fallout of this Bill and its implication.

• This administration continues to allow the sufferings of these persons who are being detained under very inhumane conditions, who are being beaten on a daily basis, who are being tortured and whose children are being snatched away and made into child soldiers.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) therefore calls on the opposition not to support this bill in its present form. We are calling on all of civil society to join our rallying call to oppose this Bill and to remind the government they work for us we don't work for them. They are accountable to the people. We are advocating that this Bill be scrapped and is asking the government to act with haste and repatriate our citizens who have been trapped in Syria and Iraq, already we are getting reports of our citizens suffering extreme cold temperatures, immense hardship and unbearable torture. The government must act now and bring home to our citizens before it’s too late.

UA/WI/TIF

Media Release: Columbian Drug Cartel Link to Trinidad.

Media Release:

Re: Columbian Drug Cartel Link to Trinidad.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) was reliably informed that a Joint Military Unit On Oct 4th, 2005 sent a Confidential Summary of Intelligence Information to the intelligence agency in Venezuela. The contents of this confidential document were as follows:

"THE INFORMATION RECEIVED BY THIS JOINT UNIT INDICATES THAT:

THIS MILITARY UNIT IS AWARE THAT COLOMBIAN CITIZEN, MAVER ALIRIO ESCOBAR OROZCO, WHO HAS FALSE VENEZUELAN IDENTITY CARD NO. 10.819.225, WITH THE NAME OF MARVAL RODRIGUEZ EDWIN JAVIER, DATE OF BIRTH 17/11/1972, WILL PRESUMABLY TRY TO ENTER THE COUNTRY IN THE NEXT FEW DAYS, FROM THE COUNTRY OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO. THIS MENTIONED CITIZEN, IDENTIFIED AS A DRUG TRAFFICKER, WILL HAVE A TRUCK WAITING FOR HIM TO USE AS TRANSPORT IN THE CITY OF CARUPANO, SUCRE STATE, WHICH WAS ARRANGED FOR HIM AFTER HE PAID THE SUM OF TWO HUNDRED MILLION BOLIVARS (200,000,000) FOR RELEASE, WHERE THIS CITIZEN WAS ALSO IMPRISONED FOR DRUG TRAFFICKING IN THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF BRAZIL AND LIKEWISE PAID FOR HIS RELEASE. THIS INFORMATION IS ISSUED IN ORDER TO INFORM THAT COUNTRY ABOUT THAT CASE, SO THAT THEY CAN TAKE THE NECESSARY ACTIONS. THIS DOCUMENT IS CLASSIFIED AND THE SOURCE MUST NOT BE REVEALED. SPECIAL ATTENTION ART. 550 QF THE MILITARY JUSTICE CODE.

DISTRIBUTION: ALL UNIT COMMANDERS.

NOTE: BE BRIEF, BUT DO NOT OMIT THE ELEMENTS OF ANALYSIS: WHAT, WHO, WHERE, HOW, WHERE."

Highlighted Under the heading "DEGREE OF SOURCE RELIABILITY" was the words "COMPLETELY TRUSTWORTHY" and highlighted under the heading "DEGREE OF VERACITY OF INFORMATION" were the words "PROBABLY TRUE"

The dispatching of this document came on the heels of 2005; August 25th Cocaine drug bust on Monos Island, valued 700 million TT dollars, an episode that would go down as a very dark day in our criminal history. It also triggered a series of events that would tarnish the wealthy Syrian community, expose the corrupt nature of the police and Judiciary and the injustice and failure of our justice system.

Five (5) Venezuelan; Darwin Gonzales, Cesar Perrera, Alonzo Valera, Freddy Garcia and Mayer Alirio Escobar Orozco, Two (2) Trinidadian; Shaheed Ali and Victor Sylvester, and One (1) Antiguan; Ramon Jarvis, were all arrested in connection with the find. This also led to the Discovery in the caretaker’s cabin, adjacent to the main house, Seven firearms; Two rifles, Three pistols, One revolver, One sub-machine gun and 247 rounds of assorted ammunition.

Darwin Gonzales, Cesar Perrera, Alonzo Valera and Freddy Garcia were found bound in chains locked up in a room. Police had to actually break open the locks to gain access inside. According to the men they were taken hostage from Venezuela and brought to the island on a Pirogue.

Mayer Alirio Escobar Orozco who according to the document captioned above and was found to be carrying a fake name was held on a boat together with Victor Sylvester, and Ramon Jarvis. Shadeed Mohammed was found loitering around the house.

According to the communique captioned above, Mayer Orozco was released after a 200,000,000 million Bolivia bribe was paid to a high ranking Trinidad official. This sum at that time was equivalent to 1,614,000 USD or 10,087,500 TTD.

Ramon Jarvis; the Antiguan, was released during the preliminary enquiry after his attorney threatened the Magistrate to make public the document captioned above.

Unfortunately, as faith would have it the remaining six men paid the ultimate price even though a lot of questions went unanswered. The police were sloppy in their investigations and lacked the capacity and the intelligence to probe deeper.

The then DPP Geoffrey Henderson and state attorney Roger Gaspard need to answer who was in receipt of the bribe according to the document captioned above?

Roger Gaspard, needs to answer and state clearly if it is true that the position of DPP was an enticement offered to him in return for winning this matter at all cost.

Were the circumstances surrounding the release of Mayer Orozco the same with the matters involving, Colombian George Mason and Glenmoore Matthew? Who was similarly charged under similar circumstances? They were PARDONED IN 2013.

Was it the same with the matters involving, Colom­bians Al­fre­do Men­doza and Fred­dy Alexan­der Rue­d who were ar­rest­ed on board the ves­sel Levi Char­i­ot, off Cha­cachacare in March of 2010. They are charged with hav­ing in their pos­ses­sion 148.4 kilo­grammes of com­pressed mar­i­jua­na, 5.2 kilo­grammes of co­caine and three igua­nas. They were released sometime during the period 2012.

And was it also the same with the matter involving, Colum­bians Sanchez and Raul Henao who were also held for drug trafficking and released in 2013. Raul Henao was using a fake name; Luis Castillo, at the time of his arrest.

Referring back to the Monos Island Drug bust. Why did it take the police 20 days after to take photos of the guns and ammunition at the station and not at the scene of the crime?

Why was no Justice of the Peace present while their statements were taken?

Who or what changed the decision of a prominent attorney to no longer represent the Venezuelans even after already receiving 50,000  USD? This was equivalent to 312,500 TTD at the time. This money was never returned.

According to an article published in the Express Newspaper, JUSTICE Alice Yorke Soo-Hon questioned why the main house at Passy Bay, Monos Island, was not searched following the August 25, 2005 drug bust which netted $700 million in cocaine.

She said she was puzzled as to why the owners of the house, co-owned by Hue Patrick, Grace Rosemarie Fitzwilliam and Helen Forbes, “never appeared to be interviewed” by the police and “why the ownership of the drugs was never ascertained.

Apart from the questions, Justice Yorke Soo-Hon noted that “investigations fell short and it was astonishing to note that the main house at Passy Bay was not searched…”

It must be noted here that the DEA had visited the four Venezuelan Nationals; Darwin Gonzales, Cesar Perrera, Alonzo Valera and Freddy Garcia on more than one occasion, offering them new identities and relocation to the United States of America if they can only identify Columbian National; Mayer Alirio Escobar Orozco and Ramon Jarvis; the Antiguan. In response, the DEA was informed of their circumstances and was told they can't identify someone they don't know and have never seen.

From all accounts, it appears that Venezuelan Nationals, Darwin Gonzales, Cesar Perrera, Alonzo Valera and Freddy Garcia are innocent of the crime they were convicted of.

An application for transfer was made by the Venezuelan Embassy on behalf of the four Venezuelan Nationals in 2016, all the necessary transfer documents together with all requirements were submitted to the Ministry of National Security, to date there has been no response. 

Why the delay? These men were found bound by chains in what can only be described as a prison, unlike Columbian Nationals, Mayer Orozco, George Mason, Glenmoore Matthew, Al­fre­do Men­doza, Fred­dy Alexan­der Rue­d, Sanchez and Raul Henao who were all found in possession of drugs and released; not transferred but released. 

This is a travesty of Justice and it begs the question, is there a Columbian Cartel link here in Trinidad? In all the matters involving the release of these foreign nationals, the name of one attorney and one senior official stands out.

Why aren't the other foreign nationals given the same opportunity allowing them to return to their country? It cost the taxpayers on average $25,000.00 to house one prisoner in the nation's prison. The crime culture in these countries is much different than the crime culture here in Trinidad and Tobago. These foreign criminals are much more advanced and superior. Remaining in our prisons will allow for the expansion of their networks. This by default will facilitate opportunities to establish links with the local criminals and crime bosses, engaging in discussions on furthering their agendas.

These foreign prisoners contribute to a lot to the violence in the country and the crime on the streets. It is contributing negatively to our prison system and by extension our communities.

This increase in violence and crimes that are now prevalent in our country and on our streets owes a lot to the corrupted officials of the state and the failure mechanisms of the Ministry of National Security.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is calling on Minister of National Security the Honourable Stuart R. Young M.P. to allow for the transfer of Venezuelan Nationals, Darwin Gonzales, Cesar Perrera, Alonzo Valera and Freddy Garcia to the Venezuelan authorities to serve the remaining of their sentences. These men were never given the opportunity of a fair trial. They were never given the opportunity to contact their families back home since there are no provisions for outside calls to that country. These men were robbed of their money by a very prominent attorney. These men are the victims of a state-sponsored criminal offence. A gross violation of fundamental rights and human dignity. The only guilty party here is the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. 

For Immediate Release:

Date: February 11th 2020

Umar Abdullah

Head of Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front)

Tel: +18687870765/+18683656253

Media Release: Response to Guardians Article; Caterer Under Probe For Jailbreak Connection; dated, Sunday 22nd December 2019, by Guardians Investigative Journalist, Mark Bassant.

Media Release:

Re: Response to Guardian's Article -  "Caterer Under Probe For Jailbreak Connection" dated, Sunday 22nd December 2019, by Guardian's Investigative Journalist, Mark Bassant.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is shocked and amazed with an article that appeared in the Guardian Newspaper on Sunday 22nd December 2019. The article by Guardian's investigative Journalist, Mark Bassant, which headline's read "Caterer Under Probe For Jailbreak Connection." Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is making the revelation, the article is slanderous and misleading. This is a perfect example of irresponsible, inaccurate and reckless journalism.

Contrary to what the article is stating, the caterers for the Futsal competition in July 2018 was not the same caterer used by Allan "Scanny" Martin in 2015.

In the article Mark Bassant has indicated in the beginning "Pris­ons source say they be­lieve the weapons which were used in that jail­break were smug­gled in with the food."

Further down in the same article, another reference was made, except this time it was worded differently stating "prisons officers find­ings". "Believe" and "findings" are totally different. One is drawn from an opinion and the other is drawn from facts.
As we read further, the main agenda begins to unfold itself. Who is being referred to as the "high pro­file in­mate now at the MSP"? Why is Mark Bassant documenting information that is false and malicious in nature?

As we continue to read we observe a deliberate attempt to link the murder of Wayne Jackson to this "high profile inmate", suggesting Wayne's refusal to allow wild meat in the prison as the reason why he was killed. Wild meat was never ordered by this inmate in 2018. It was other inmates who had made the request and it was denied because the caterer indicated at the time it was not part of his menu list for that occasion.
As we move on we discover another unfounded statement. "One of the men who were responsible for killing Jackson, well-placed intelligence sources confirmed to the Sun­day Guardian, was Marcus Marshall".

Marcus Marshall never was involved nor was he connected in anyway to that murder. Because of his association with the Carapo Jamaat, this allegation was made. Wayne Jackson was well loved and respected by the Muslims. There were other inmates were "toting feelings" for Wayne Jackson, why ain't they being investigated?

As we continue reading, another blatant lie is told; "Marshall was found shot dead along the Old Valencia Road on November 19, dressed in Muslim garb. He was shot multiple times in the head and back. He was found with both his hands clasped tightly to a bag containing thousands of dollars."

Marshall was never found with any money. And if Mark Bassant would have done his enquiries well, he would have known, Marshall was a very skeptic individual. He would not have stopped for anyone, except for someone in authority or in uniform. He was made to come out the vehicle before he was murdered. By all accounts it appears it was the "Police Hit Squad" that killed Marshall.

Subsequent to the Murder of Marshall, three (3) members of the Carapo Masjid was arrested by the police for the Murder. However no one was ever charged. All in keeping with the storyline of Mark Bassant. In this article a foundation is being laid which indicates the direction an intention  of the TTPS.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is convinced and of the firm believe that Mark Bassant is doing the bidding for this rogue elite squad. This now begs the question, who is really incharge of the TTPS?

It is quite clear Mark Bassant compromised the reputation of the  Guardian Newspaper. This was a grave compromise of Mark Bassant's values and oath of duty testifying the belief, that clear thinking and clear statement, accuracy and fairness are fundamental to good journalism. - It is a policy that a journalist should write only what he holds in his heart to be true. - and the belief that suppression of the news, for any consideration other than the welfare of society, is indefensible.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is calling on the Guardian's editors to retract this story in like manner it appeared in the public and we call on the Media Association of Trinidad and Tobago's, Dr Sheila Rampersad and Nicholas Sabga - Managing director of Guardian Media Limited, to immediately launch an investigation into the conduct of Mark Bassant. Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) views this as indulging in state sponsored character assassination in an effort to spew hate and division amongst the people of Trinidad and Tobago.

Link to article: https://www.guardian.co.tt/news/caterer-under-probe-for-jailbreak-connection-6.2.1013374.fe55ad4ac5

For Immediate Release:
Date: January, 06th 2020

Umar Abdullah
Head of Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front)
Tel: +18687870765/+18683656253

Media Release: The Negative Portrayal of Imam Hassan Ali on the Newsday Newspaper.

Media Release:

Re: The Negative Portrayal of Imam Hassan Ali on the Newsday Newspaper.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) has Once again, seen the need for the public to call into question the motives and underlying intentions of the leadership of the Police Service of Trinidad and Tobago. In the first instance it appears that the TTPS is endeavoring to move its focus from protecting the citizenry and instead into selective and discretionary photography services for the media industry of Trinidad and Tobago.

This religious leader pictured in the Newsday, (See Article Attached) is charged for a minor offence involving a behavioural allegation and here he is being photographed and portrayed like a dangerous animal. The picture taken by the "photo-takeouters" of the TTPS even publicly portrays the citizen's age on the board, clearly written by a person who may have been forced into the protective forces. 

What has happened to the lawful protocols of, innocent until proven guilty? How come other persons like Ministers (from the current government) Businessmen ( charged for possession of illegal gun and drugs), former policemen (charged for extortion and bribery), step children of ministers (charged for drug trafficking), licensing employees and other prominent criminals are not being placed against white boards and photographed with their age for the media? Is this a particular and specialized treatment that is reserved for persons of specific ethnic and religious groups?

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) have seen a growing pattern of instances where civil society leaders are being targeted by the state and presented with every opportunity in a negative light. The civil society's moral suasion on the public has impacted many an election in the bygone years. As we approach the general election year we can expect to see all manner of attempts to sway or force the public into retaining a group of 21st century dictatorial leaders whose intention is nothing short of oppression for the wider population.

For Immediate Release:

Date: 16th December 2019

Umar Abdullah 

Head of Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) 

Tel: +18687870765 or +18683656253

https://newsday.co.tt/2019/12/14/imam-denied-bail-for-demanding-money-2/

Media Release: Legalization of Cannabis and the stability of our Nation

Media Release:

Re: Legalization of Cannabis and the stability of our Nation

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) warns, that the Nation is facing an epic opening of a social floodgate by the government of the day and most of the citizenry is oblivious of the impending potential catastrophe which may come to their homes and places of comfort.

The true value of a democratic government is epitomized in its ability to make decisions which will enhance the lives and interest of the population in a manner that is morally, ethically and socially progressive. 

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is asking the question, Will the legalization of Cannabis bring such a standard to our beloved nation? Will it add value to the culture of peace, harmony and safety which we aspire to create and develop for our generations to come?

To bring you to answering this question honestly, you must be made aware of what Cannabis is verses what “Marijuana” or “ganja” or “weed” or “the blunt” is.

Cannabis

https://www.britannica.com/plant/cannabis-plant

An aromatic herb, with origins from the South Asian continent.

Marijuana or Weed or Ganga or The Blunt.

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/modern-marijuana-more-potent-often-laced-heavy-metals-and-fungus-180954696/

“In Colorado, which made marijuana legal in November 2012, the latest results show that the pot lining store shelves is much more potent than the weed of 30 years ago. But the boost in power comes at a cost—modern marijuana mostly lacks the components touted as beneficial by medical marijuana advocates, and it is often contaminated with fungi, pesticides and heavymetals.
“There's a stereotype, a hippy kind of mentality, that leads people to assume that growers are using natural cultivation methods and growing organically," says Andy LaFrate, founder of Charas Scientific, one of eight Colorado labs certified to test cannabis.

His group has tested more than 600 strains of marijuana from dozens of producers. Potency tests, the only ones Colorado currently requires, looked at tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound that produces the plant's famous high. They found that modern weed contains THC levels of 18 to 30 percent—double to triple the levels that were common in buds from the 1980s. That's because growers have cross-bred plants over the years to create more powerful strains, which today tout colorful names like Bruce Banner, Skunk berry and Blue Cookies. Those thinking that stronger pot is always better pot might think again. Breeding for more powerful marijuana has led to the virtual absence of cannabinol (CBD), a compound being investigated for treatments to a range of ills, from anxiety and depression to schizophrenia, Huntington's disease and Alzheimer's.

Reports from the countries who have legalized Cannabis indicate that the new struggle is the impact it is having on the users of the drug. The now legal producers are finding ways to create addicts.

Drive along the streets of any average village or community and what do you see? A bar or liquor mart almost every hundred meters. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6202816/

“Over 60% of households (HHs) in Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) consume alcohol. These HHs were more likely to report illnesses, relationship problems, and behavioral problems with children.”

We have been found to be ranked among the highest in the world for porn viewership and downloads according to a local newspaper report: https://www.guardian.co.tt/article-6.2.359040.f9859028b2

How many school children end up with cigarettes because of careless parents and irresponsible retailers?

According to the World Health Organization:

“Trinidad and Tobago has the highest population of smokers in the English-speaking Caribbean (27%), with second-hand smoke posing a threat to public health. The 2007 Global School-based Health Survey of 2,969 students (10–18 years old) at 32 secondary schools in Trinidad and Tobago revealed that 9.9% of students (11.2% of males and 8.5% of females) had smoked cigarettes on one or more days during the previous 30 days. Of students who smoked, 80.9% had tried their first cigarette at age 13 years or younger. The rate in the 16- to 18-year age group was 17.9% (22.5% males and 13.4% females).”

https://www.paho.org/salud-en-las-americas-2012/index.php?option=com_docman&view=download&category_slug=hia-2012-country-chapters-22&alias=149-trinidad-tobago-149&Itemid=231&lang=en

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is asking the question, can Trinidad and Tobago really handle more “addicts”?

The Government is touting this legalization as being a benefit to the nation but the track record of the state to properly regulate anything that can be abused in this country is evidence enough to support the statement that this nation may be facing a social catastrophe.

We need to have a channeled system for this to be of any real benefit to the persons whose choice it is to use the herb. Cannabis use should not become lateral and equal to the use of cigarettes or alcohol.

Allowing the entire population to have the right to growing it, even in a small quantity, is a recipe for chaos. The negative impact from abuse or misuse of this herb cannot be overstated. According to: https://www.britannica.com/science/marijuana

Marijuana’s effects vary, depending upon the strength and amount consumed, the setting in which it is taken, and the experience of the user. Psychological effects tend to predominate, with the user commonly experiencing a mild euphoria. Alterations in vision and judgment result in distortions of time and space. Acute intoxication may occasionally induce visual hallucinations, anxiety, depression, extreme variability of mood, paranoid reactions, and psychoses lasting four to six hours. Marijuana’s physical effects include reddening of the eyes, dryness of the mouth and throat, moderate increase in the rapidity of the heartbeat, tightness of the chest (if the drug is smoked), drowsiness, unsteadiness, and muscular incoordination.

Chronic use does not establish physical dependence, nor does the regular user suffer extreme physical discomfort after withdrawal. However, the use of marijuana may be psychologically habituating. Research indicates that marijuana use during the teenage years is associated with an increased risk of depression in young adulthood.

Instead the discussion should be about creating a structure where the commercial planting, process and distribution is controlled and recorded.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is advocating:

1)  The Government should consider having one (1) national authority for testing and processing the plant for use or consumption.

2)  The growing of the plant should be limited to registered and licensed farmers who must be able to show that they can secure and protect their crop from easy access. This will create the environment for proper business amongst the farming community.

3)  There should be an established list that defines what variety of Cannabis plants will be allowed. This will prevent the tampering of the genetic makeup of the plant, thus protecting the end – user.

4)  These farmers must then trade their produce at a government-approved rate to the authority that is established for distribution to authorized users. This will allow an even field for the small farmer vs the large farmer.

5)  Persons who want to purchase the processed plant can then be categorized into genres such as research, health or recreation.

6)  All customers to the authority should be made to register with a minimal registration fee and be given a specific registration number so that the state can account for all persons who have legal access to the plant at any time.

7)  Persons found to be using or in possession can then be easily identified by the police as either legitimate or illegitimate.

8)  The product should be branded and specific markers attached so that the batches and production date can be identified. This will prevent unauthorized products from entering the market.

This system will benefit the entire nation by way of the state gaining revenue streams through regulation and sale of the products. It will create entrepreneurs in the farming community and the illegal drug trade in this sector will die as a consequence of the operational cost and loss of customers.

Off course, like everything typical Trini-styled, persons will try to beat the system and off course persons will continue to end up before the courts. We cannot become a society where, due to the high frequency of persons breaking the law, we opt to change the law to accommodate law-breakers. We have seen this stance being taken time and time again, with the Private Cars working as taxis, the speed limit etc. There must remain a level of control.

We also cannot allow politicians to use our divided stance, subjected to what affects us or how we feel personally and directly, to coerce us into voting or supporting them.  After they attain office where they are paid exorbitant salaries, which they determine for themselves, it is us, you and I, the regular citizens who are left to live, day in day out, with the ills of the social fallout that come with rash decision-making and laws passing.

Murder, rape, robbery, assault, organized crime, domestic violence, broken homes, destroyed lives of loved ones and the list goes on.

To the sober-minded citizens of this nation, if you do not come out and have a say on this matter, Marijuana will be coming to the shops and street corners near you, courtesy the political ambitions of a government desperate for five more years of authoritarian rule under the guise of democracy.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is calling on the entire population to say NO to Legalization and Yes to Legislative Regulation!

For Immediate Release:
Date: Monday 25th November 2019

Umar Abdullah
Head of Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front)
Tel: +18687870765 or +18683656253

Media Release: In Response to the Miscellaneous Provisions (Law Enforcement Officers) Bill 2019

Media Release: 

Re: In Response to the Miscellaneous Provisions (Law Enforcement Officers) Bill 2019

The United Prison Movement and Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is signaling the creation of a Police State by introducing such Bills as the Bail Amendment and more recently the Miscellaneous Provisions (Law Enforcement Officers) Bill 2019. In our view what these Bills seeks to do is give unilateral powers to the police and to usurp the power of the Judiciary. Its interfering with attorney–client privilege and confidentiality. Its a violation of the fundamental rights of our citizens. 

A citizen's rights of choice as it pertains to his/her safety and well being is now being stripped away. We are now being asked to compromise and give up our constitutional rights because the leadership of the police is incapable of protecting the citizenry.

These laws are not just unconstitutional but are barbaric and draconian in nature. The state in its vicious nature and its desire to satisfy their financiers instead of addressing prison reform and the long delays of matters before the courts continues to suppress and abuse the fundamental rights of prisoners and the poor class in this country. 

In our opinion we see this government using Commissioner of Police Gary Griffith as a distraction, while they unleash these violations of constitutional rights upon the unsuspecting public. Defence attorneys are painted as being in support of criminals or criminals themselves by the head of the police service and the political leadership remains silent on this. Has the principles of natural justice been struck down in favor of  allowing a commissioner to prevent accused citizens from defending themselves in the courts?

The United Prison Movement and Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) supports the lawful persecution of all criminals but this persecution must be just and fair. We must not allow the urgency of nation's social ills to force us into accepting governance and police tactics that belong to a military state or dictatorship rule. We must demand competence from those who seek the job of political and national office or we just demand a swift end to their careers.

The United Prison Movement and Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is asking, has the last four years of our lives been made any safer or easier by those who feed and revel under the banner of government? Every sphere of our existence as citizens of this great nation has been made to be a source of income for the political ambitions of this government. The food we have to buy, the water we need to use,  the power for our homes, the education system we need for our children, the energy resources we need to make our lives easier, the companies we have worked so hard to build.

We are fed lies and innuendos each passing day by those who have failed us. Our great city is being used as payment for international political support. Our lower class business citizenry displaced from their livelihood within the city in favor of a foreign land. Whilst we starve we are given "free" bulbs that we pay for with higher taxes. The proceeds of which; "The LED Bulb Supplier, HADCO", used to acquire the Barbados headquartered Caribbean LED Lighting.

The United Prison Movement and Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is therefore, summoning the opposition and rest of civil society to come forward and strike down the efforts of this administration to violate and oppress its citizens into sheep like behaviour. 

In the words of Thomas Jefferson In the Declaration of Independence: When faced with a “long train of abuses” with the goal of pursuing despotism, it is the duty of the people to “throw off such government.” Implicit here is when injustice becomes law resistance becomes duty.

For Immediate Release:

Date: November 14th, 2019

Umar Abdullah

Head of the United Prison Movement and Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front)

Tel: +18683656253 or +18687870765

Media Release: Plea to this administration to step up efforts to repatriate women and children who are being held in Syria.

Media Release:

Re: Plea to this administration to step up efforts to repatriate women and children who are being held in Syria. 

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is calling on the government to answer the calls from a group of Trinidadian women who has made a plea to this administration to step up efforts to repatriate their families who are being held at a Kurdish-run camp in northern Syria.

In an article published on the 23rd October, 2019 from the Middle East Eye, it stated; “they are fearful they (their families) could be caught in fighting between the Turkish army and Kurdish militias. The women said they feared that “devastating things” could happen to their families, including several children, unless the government of Trinidad and Tobago acted immediately. 

The families mentioned are at the al-Hol refugee camp, which has been rocked by unrest because of recent events. Nearly two weeks ago, Turkey launched an offensive in northern Syria against the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG), eliciting a strong military response from Syrian government forces. Based on this recent publication, Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is calling on this administration to not ignore the cries of our citizens and to provide assistance as soon as possible. 

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) also notes the conditions of those at the camps, specifically the children who are innocently caught in the midst of this war. Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is also questioning the purpose and lack of intervention of the Nightingale programme which was established to seek out and or encourage repatriations of this nature.

For Immediate Release:

Date: October 24rd, 2019

Umar Abdullah

Head of Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front)

Tel: +18683656253 or +18687870765

Media Release: Renewed Call to Shut Down TTT Limited.

Media Release:

Re: Renewed Call to Shut Down TTT Limited. 

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) in referencing its media release dated 21st October, 2019, is renewing its call for the Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley to shut the doors of state owned TV station; TTT Limited, if it is the minister of communications under the directive of the Prime Minister, fails to investigate if there are any labour breaches at state owned company, TTT LIMITED.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is calling on TTT LIMITED to account to every deserving tax paying citizen of this country, simply because they are the true owners of this company and they deserve the right to know how their money was spent and is being spent. They deserve the right to be informed of any managerial issues, especially when it comes to the treatment of our countrymen who are the employees of this company.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) has in the past called on other state agencies to account for their failed policies, mismanagement and corrupt practices. We demand that steps be taken to remedy this symptom of failure on the part of this present administration, before its too late, at which time, we'll be forced to accept another loss; a drain on our talents, money and resources.

For Immediate Release:

Date: October 23rd, 2019

Umar Abdullah

Head of Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front)

Tel: +18683656253 or +18687870765

Media Release: Shutting Down of TTT Limited.

Media Release:

Re: Shutting Down of TTT Limited. 

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is calling on the Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley to shut the doors of state owned TV station; TTT Limited. Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) understands apart from the company operating at a loss, it is compounded by the fact, TTT Limited, is in breach of all labour laws in this country, as they don't pay overtime to workers, rather they utilise the "Compensatory Time Off System" (CTO). This bugs the question; why the move to implement such a draconian policy to employees already experiencing late salary payments, since 2018.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is calling on the Minister of Communications Senator, Donna Cox to clarify this information and state to the country, if TTT is breaking Labour Laws, and show proof to the citizens of this country, that this isn't so. Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is also concerned about a "clique" at the state owned media house who seems to be acting as Judge and Jury. This "clique" of Managers some of whom have no background in media and the creative Industry are also the ones championing draconian policies in the company, much to the distress of workers. Can the Communications minister also clarify this? And by extension the honorable Prime Minister? 

Responding to a letter written by Indera Sagewan, published in the Guardian on Monday, August 28, 2017 under the headline: ‘Another debacle: CNMG to TTT’. The then Minister of Public Administration and Communications; Honourable Maxie Cuffie, Member of Parliament for La Horquetta/Talparo, said "... is not simply a cosmetic name change... the closure of CNMG goes beyond re-branding and restructuring..."

The then Communications Minister Stuart Young in an article written by Camille Hunte published in the Express Newspaper July 6th 2018, said “I will fight hard to make sure jobs are maintained and let us turn this around.”

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) reminds the country that this state enterprise is one which was used as the source of corruption in 2015 which saw huge and exorbitant salaries being paid to former managers of the TV Station. This is the same TTT who has a perrenial problem of changing managers every so often, and a failure to increase viewers or attract viable, sustainable sales to generate revenue. It is clear, by these revelation, TTT, described on its Website as an" "Enterprise providing broadcast, production and transmission services for audiences within Trinidad and Tobago and beyond." has strayed from it's mandate. 

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) in an attempt to address these issues sent messages and made numerous calls to the line Minister, Senator the Honourable Donna Cox, to no avail. Imagine that! The Communications Minister, does not know how to communicate. We are therefore calling on the  the Prime Minister, Dr. The Honourable Keith Christopher Rowley to shut down the and liquidate this "debacle" according to, Indera Sagewan-Alli in 2017.

For Immediate Release:

Date: October 21st, 2019

Umar Abdullah

Head of Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front)

Tel: +18683656253 or +18687870765

Media Release: Response to Newsday's Article - "Criminologist: Jail ISIS Moms."dated, Wednesday 16th October 2019, by Newsday's Journalist, Azard Ali.

Media Release:

Re: Response to Newsday's Article -  "Criminologist: Jail ISIS Moms."dated, Wednesday 16th October 2019, by Newsday's Journalist, Azard Ali.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is shocked and amazed with yesterday's, Wednesday 16th October 2019 article by Newsday's Journalist, Azard Ali which headline's read "Criminologist: Jail ISIS Moms." Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is making the revelation, the article is slanderous and misleading. "I didn't say jail. I said investigated. The case I made is that if the govt is to bring back the women and children, some of the women will have to be investigated and face justice in return."

"I'm for repatriation of women and children- but there has to be a reckoning with some of the women who knowingly took their kids to a war zone."

"They're not victims, the kids are, but not the parents, " said Simon Cottee when interviewed today by Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front's) head Umar Abdullah.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) holds the view that absolute care must be taken after the repatriation process is completed, in that mechanisms must be installed to assess and determine the intent of those who have gone and what were the circumstances that would have influenced their decision to leave. In the interest of security and safety for all and the promotion of proper growth and development in achieving the maximum benefit of actions taken, Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) suggests the commissioning of a specialist unit comprising of all stakeholders inclusive of, military, police, the judiciary, government, academia and civil society.

It is quite clear the newsday's editor prostituted the reputation of the Newsday paper for the "Almighty Dollar" in coining the headline in the manner it was worded, when obviously an alternative such as "Concerns for ISIS women when they return" would have drawn just as much attention as did the chosen headline did.

This was a grave compromise of the journalist's values and oath of duty were they testify the belief, that clear thinking and clear statement, accuracy and fairness are fundamental to good journalism. - they further state the belief that a journalist should write only what he holds in his heart to be true. - and the belief that suppression of the news, for any consideration other than the welfare of society, is indefensible.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is calling on the Newsday editors to retract this story in like manner it appeared in the public and we call on the Media Association of Trinidad and Tobago's, Dr Sheila Rampersad to immediately launch an investigation into the matter. Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) views this as indulging in anti-Islamic sentiment rhetoric in an effort to spew hate and division within the Islamic community.

Link to article: https://newsday.co.tt/2019/10/16/criminologist-jail-isis-moms/

For Immediate Release:
Date: October, 17th 2019

Umar Abdullah
Head of Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front)
Tel: +18687870765/+18683656253

Media Release: United Prison Movement, Meeting and Hunger Strike.

Media Release:

Re: United Prison Movement, Meeting and Hunger Strike.

Umar Abdullah for the United Prison Movement: Interview With PSA TV - 2nd October 2019
https://youtu.be/O2FqWvbfSZo

United Prison Movement held its second meeting at The Mandela Hall, Centre of Excellence, 17A Macoya Road, Tunapuna on Wednesday 2nd October 2019. We covered a number of pertinent issues facing the prison, the prisoners and their families. Present at the meeting were family and friends of both remanded and convicted inmates, Attorney at Law Fareed Ali, Deputy Commissioner of Prisons, Mohammed and his entourage and His Worship, Magistrate Nikolas Ali.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/ZdjXWtBYbzDiz69NA
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLWAemDoyNEW6SpCriTUkuOdwYO6cyYemT

On a separate note, contrary to a report in the Guardian by RAD­HI­CA DE SIL­VA, dated Sunday 6th October 2019. The United Prison Movement was the body responsible for the immediate end to the the five day Hunger Strike and not the prison authorities as was alluded to in the article.

For Immediate Release:
Date: October 7th, 2019

Umar Abdullah
Head of United Prison Movement and Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front)
Tel: +18683656253 or +18687870765

The commemoration 10th day of the Islamic month called Muharram; Ashura

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) joins Muslims here and across the world in observing the significance of the day of Ashura; 10th of the Muharram, or more specifically the 10th day of the Islamic month called Muharram, which incidentally falls on the 10th of September. This day is considered to be the holiest month after Ramadhan and one of the four sacred months in the Islamic calendar.

This day also bears significance to the Jews and Christians as it commemorates the day Noah left the Ark, and more significantly, the day that Moses and the Israelites were saved from Pharaoh by Almighty God creating a path in the Sea. For Shia Muslims, Ashura is a solemn day of mourning the martyrdom of Hussein in 680 AD at Karbala in modern-day Iraq. It must be noted that this day of mourning bears no real significance and does not represent the authentic traditions in Islam.

This day is marked by Muslims all over the world with two voluntary days of fasting. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged Muslims to fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram because it is an expiation of sins of the preceding year.

Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front) is offering supplications on this auspicious day of Muharram, for Almighty God to deliver us as He has delivered Noah and Moses (May the Almighty God be pleased with them). May Almighty God save us from the grip of the heartless, gutless, criminals and the evil of our wretched rulers. May Almighty God bless us with health, wealth, peace and happiness, and abundance of all that is good and pure. Aameen.

Umar Abdullah
Head of Waajihatul Islaamiyyah (The Islamic Front)
Tel: +18687870765/+18683656253