RPSL and all major civil society organizations, meeting at the Ministry to discuss pressing issues and concerns affecting the Muslim community

A meeting with Hon. Vijitha Herath, Minister of Foreign Affairs, was held yesterday at the Ministry to discuss pressing issues and concerns affecting the Muslim community. The meeting was attended by all major civil society organizations, including RPSL, which was represented by our President Shabry Haleemdeen and the vice president Saif Hanifa.

The discussion was productive and meaningful, with a range of challenges faced by the Muslim community raised by all organizations present. The conversation was spearheaded by ACJU general secretary Ash- Sheikh Arkam Nooramith who opened the discussion with bold and constructive remarks, setting a strong tone for the dialogue that followed. His leadership and clear articulation of issues inspired other organizations to contribute actively.
Notably, prior to the meeting held the ACJU secretary General requested that Mr. Shabry Haleemdeen moderate the session via Zoom to plan out the key matters to be taken up for discussion with all organisations.

concerns about the effects of the unfair
One of the key issues highlighted was the repeated presence of intelligence officers interference at events organized by the Muslim community – including social and charitable events such as those hosted by the YMMA which has 150 plus branches under the Parliament act.– with their motives and activities often being unfairly questioned by the intelligence were brought up by ACYMMA President Amhar Shareef.

Credit must also be extended to Mr Shabry Haleemdeen, Mr Afzal Marikkar, Nr N M Ameen, Dr A L M Nazar (neurologist), Mr Mahil Dole, Mr T K Azoor, Mr Adel Hasim and others who spoke candidly and forcefully on behalf of the community, conveying key concerns without hesitation.

Additional topics discussed included increasing access to education, addressing the issue of illegal arrests, and, on a humanitarian front, expressing concern over the disruptive nature of Israeli occupation in certain regions, which has drawn deep concern within the community.
The issues raised were carefully considered by the Minister, Deputy Speaker Rizvi Sally and Parliamentarian M. Aslam, who all expressed their commitment to follow up with actionable steps.
In response to a question about whether the meeting was politically motivated due to upcoming elections, the Minister clarified that this initiative was not election-driven. He confirmed that such meetings would be held regularly, with the next session scheduled for June. He emphasized that the purpose of the discussions is to stay informed of community issues and to build a stronger, more transparent relationship with Muslim community organizations.

There was also notable participation from women representation, Dr Mareena Taha,Tasy Dahlan and few others from other organizations, both in person and at the meeting and virtually via Zoom prior to the scheduled meeting. Their active engagement and contributions added valuable perspectives to the discussion, reflecting the inclusive and representative nature of the meeting.

Overall, the discussion was a highly productive one, providing a much-needed platform for open dialogue between the government and Muslim civil society organizations. We are hoping with the grace of Almighty Allah, that the issues raised will be addressed with the seriousness they deserve, and we look forward to seeing meaningful and positive outcomes as a result of this engagement.