Give public more time to scrutinize anti-terrorism bill

September 1 - September 15, 2012. (Shawwal 14, 1433 A.H) www.thenewdawn.info

TV show kick started my law career

-P7

Al Amin Kimathi and Hassan Omar consulting during a recent forum to discuss the anti-terror bill in Nairobi, right is Farouq Machanja. The forum was organised by MUHURI.

Ali Hussein-The ardent radio listener from

Thika -P5

By Hassan Ole Naado

Continued on Pg 2

Vol. 08 Issue N0: 7

The Prevention of Terrorism Bill, 2012 is at an advanced stage in the parliamentary process that is expected to

enact it into law.By the first week of September,

the Bill had already gone through the First Reading in the National Assembly, and had been presented to the parliamentary departmental committee on administration and national security for scrutiny before taking it to the next level in the legislative process.

While in the hands of the committee, the Bill was required to undergo a very important process— public access and participation pursuant to Article 118 of the constitution.

Article 118 enjoins Parliament to conduct its business in an open and transparent manner by holding its sittings and those of its committees in public and facilitating public participation and involvement in legislative matters.

In this regard, an August 31 press notification issued by the National Assembly called upon interested groups and the general public to present their views on the anti terrorism bill by the end of business on September 4, 2012— meaning that the public had only four

days to prepare memoranda and submit them to the committee.

Whereas it is important for Parliament to dispatch its legislative agenda with speed, it is easy for one to notice that the time allocated for public participation, especially in view of the Prevention of Terrorism Bill, was too little for any group or individual to have prepared meaningful memoranda on this sensitive proposed legislation.

HIGHLIGHTS IN THE PREVENTION OF TERRORISM BILL, 2012Anyone convicted of terrorism will be sent to jail for life.

Those suspected of being terrorists will have their properties seized.

Mobile phone companies and banks will be required to work closely with government agencies to help in interception of communication and tracking of transactions in the accounts of terror suspects.

Those who shelter terror suspects, provide training premises, fund-raise and recruit youths into terror groups will be jailed for up to 30 years.

The New DawnSeptember 1 - September 15, 2012.2 / National News

By Iddi Musyemi

Continued from Pg 1

Good tidings as Gulf African Bank numbers show growth

Gulf African Bank (GAB), Kenya’s premier Shari’ah compliant bank has announced its unaudited results for the half year ending June 30, 2012 showing a remarkable 452% growth in income before tax compared to the same period last year.

According to a press release dated August 23, notable highlights compared to 2011include profit before tax of Sh195 M for the first six months of 2012 compared to Sh155 M for the full financial year of 2011; growth of net income after tax by annualized 161%

in the first quarter to close at Sh124 M compared to Sh95.3 M for the full financial year of 2011; 37.0 % increase in financing arrangements to customers from Sh6.2 B as at 30th June 2011 to close at Sh8.54 B as at 30th June 2012; 20.7% growth in customer deposits to close at Sh11.1 B as at 30th June 2012 from Sh6.2 B as at 30th June 2011.

Building on its track record as the industry leader, the Bank recently launched a unique deposit mobilization campaign Inua Akiba, Inua Jamii. This campaign is skewed towards Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR ) hence Inua Akiba Inua Jamii. Requesting customers both existing and new to nominate a

CSR project from the list provided by bank staff that the bank should support from the proceeds of the campaign.

During the grand draw the CSR project with the highest number of nominations will be supported by the bank. The bank is also giving ipads & cash prizes to monthly mini draw winners. The grand prize is a trip for two to Hajj to perform their religious obligations or cash equivalent for a non-Muslim.

With 14 branches in a span of four years of operation, the GAB continues to focus on its expansion strategy throughout Kenya with the opening of two new branches by end of 2012.

“We are very pleased with our results for the first half of 2012 which continues to affirm that our three year Forward Together strategy is gathering momentum. Our renewed customer focus has already begun to provide results in the very short term. We are working to ensure that the trend continues in the months ahead,” says Asad Ahmed, Director & CEO of Gulf African Bank.

GAB is a pioneering Islamic Bank in the entire East African region offering products that address the needs of not just Muslims but everyone in the country through fair, safe and ethical practices.

Public should be given time to scrutinize anti-terrorism bill

There is no doubt that makers of our constitution framed Article 118 to allow public participation in order to ensure that laws made by our legislators also reflect the wishes of the people who are governed by those laws. In essence, makers of the constitution intended to ensure that the law serves the people and not the people serving the law.

In this regard, the question that arises in view of the anti terrorism bill is— what will be the fate of a law that did not get adequate public participation?

The answer is simple and straight— the law will be viewed with suspicion and, to the extreme, receive stiff resistance from a skeptical public.

If this could be the fate of the anti-terrorism bill, does it justify a review of the time allocated for public participation? The answer is; yes.

Indeed, terrorism is a very complex and emotional issue and that is why previous attempts to introduce a law to fight terrorism in Kenya have always generated controversy.

In the first year of the Kibaki administration, the Suppression of Terrorism Bill 2003 generated a lot of controversy leading to its suspension and eventual discarding. Muslims were the ones who, particularly, voiced opposition to the Bill because it contained provisions, which if passed, would have encouraged wholesale condemnation of communities, organizations and families as terrorists.

It is also important to note that Muslims opposed the anti-terrorism bill in 2003 because they felt they were the specific target of the punitive provisions contained there-in. Besides,

the bill was also introduced at a time when the environment was poisoned with emotions resulting from the war the United States government had launched against global terrorism— characterized by the invasion of Iraq and Afghanistan.

It was, therefore, prudent to suspend the anti-terrorism bill then with a promise to re-introduce it at a time of sobriety.

This year, when the country has a new constitution, seemed to be the best time to re-introduce the anti-terrorism bill because the new supreme law takes care of the fears Muslims have always expressed over attempts to enact legislation to fight terrorism.

Provisions of Article 118 are some

of the constitutional safeguards that Muslims had hoped to use to ensure they have their say in the proposed legislation and that no constitutionally guaranteed rights are violated. However, given the little time provided for public participation, there is cause to worry that some mischief may be allowed to skulk through the net of legislative vigilance in the name of speeding up the legislative agenda.

Besides, the tensions that still prevail in the coastal town of Mombasa and its environs have destructed very many interested parties who would have liked to present their views on this Bill.

There is also the misguided thinking that only Muslims should

worry about the anti-terrorism bill. But a careful analysis of some provisions of this bill should send all Kenyans, Muslim or non-Muslim, jumping out of their skins.

For example, Part IV of the proposed legislation which deals with investigation of offences appears to give a police officer of any rank unfettered discretion to arrest and detain any person the officer in question believes to have committed or is committing an offence under the Act.

Whereas the bill speaks of “reasonable grounds” as the basis upon which a police officer can arrest and detain a person believed to have committed is committing an offence under the Act, the proposed law is very vague on what constitutes ‘reasonable grounds.’ Such a provision can be misused by security agents to harass anyone—Muslim or non-Muslim. In fact, it can be misused to settle scores in political competition the way anti-terrorism provisions have been used against opposition politicians in Uganda and Rwanda.

These are, therefore, the kind of issues on which the public should be given sufficient time to have discussions around and present meaningful views on, such that when the bill is finally enacted into law, the people are in agreement on what it means to fight terrorism.

In this regard, the parliamentary committee dealing with this Bill may have to consider extending the time within which interested parties can submit their views on how best to fight terrorism.

And who knows, some people could have very good ideas that would go a long way in dealing with this menace in a more effective manner.

Acting Internal Security Minister Yusuf Haji (center) confers with a fellow worshipper during Idd prayers. Haji tabled the anti-terrorism bill in parliament.

/ 3The New DawnSeptember 1 - September 15, 2012.

By Abdinoor Aden

COUNTY BRIEFS

By Mbarak Abucheri

You can do more, Imams and madrassa teachers told

KAKAMEGA: Imams and madrassa teachers in Western province have been urged not to limit their roles to mosques and Muslim schools only but get involved in community projects to promote health awareness and reduction of child mortality.

Speaking at a health awareness day workshop for Imams and madrassa teachers at Kakamega Jamia Mosque and Islamic Centre, Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (Supkem) national treasurer Sheikh Abubakar Chemaswet regretted that Imams and maalims were limiting their roles to the walls of mosques and madrassas only.

“Your role is not limited to prayers only. You have much larger roles to play in society and this should reflect in your activities,” he said in the event which he was the guest of honor.

Sheikh Chemaswet asked Imams to use their positions in their communities to help solve day-to-

day problems, a role which the communities expected from them as leaders.

He urged the spiritual leaders to actively participate in the welfare of orphans and widows, youth empowerment, addressing poverty levels, HIV/Aids challenges and other social problems.

“You also need to engage with other

leaders in the community and participate in programmes which will contribute to the development of your areas” said Sheikh Chemaswet noting that good relations with all people including non-Muslims would contribute positively to their areas.

Supkem provincial chairman Sheikh Abdi Swaleh called on Muslims in the region

to come out and seek leadership positions created by the new constitution for the minority groups.

The event, organized by Inter-Religious Council of Kenya (IRCK) in partnership with Supkem, brought together over 50 people including Imams, maalims, youth and women leaders and health workers.

Annulled NEP 2011 KCSE

exams to be re-marked

GARISSA: There may be a re-mark of the cancelled 2011 examinations if the recommendations made by a parliamentary committee are adopted.

The Committee on Education Research and Technology has recommended that students who will be found innocent should be given their results.

The committee was petitioned by Dujis MP Adan Duale in March after the cancelation of results which affected about 3,000 students in the North Eastern Province as 40 secondary schools out of 60 were penalised.

The students were either suspected by Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) of collusion or possessing unauthorized materials in examination rooms.

The committee, chaired by Mosop MP David Koech, said that cartels within KNEC were responsible for examination malpractices and recommended an overhaul of the council.

The New DawnSeptember 1 - September 15, 2012.4 /

Tana River clashes have been triggered by competition for resources, but there are underlying political issues that must be addressed openly.

By Aisha Adan

Peace and Security for Development (PSD) Programme

Kenya Muslim Youth Alliance, P.O Box 27592-00100, Nairobi-Kenya. Tel:254-(0)20-3861530/1 Email:info@kenyamuslims.org Website:www.kenyamuslims.org

This message is sponsored by the Peace, Security for Development (PSD) programme which is undertaken by the Kenya Muslim Youth Alliance in partnership with the Royal Danish Embassy. The views expressed herein

emerged purely from activities of the PSD programme itself and do not in any way represent the position of the Danish Embassy.

Meanwhile, Kenya Muslim Youth Alliance thanks the Royal Danish Embassy for supporting this column over the years.

Lessons from Tana River and Mombasa violence calls for rethinking of PSD strategy

The month of August, infamously referred to as the jinxed month for Kenyans, saw yet another round

of sad moments as certain prominent personalities passed on peacefully while tens of ordinary folks died in various parts of the country through acts of violence.

The most notable incidents were the inter-ethnic bloodletting in North Eastern and Coast provinces where communities suddenly turned against each other, killing

scores of innocent women and children as the case was in Tana River, and the near anarchical street protests in Mombasa that saw rioting mobs attack churches and security officers following the killing of Muslim cleric Sheikh Aboud Rogo.

The Tana River inter-ethnic violence and the deadly protests in Mombasa should, particularly, arouse great concern among partner organizations in the Peace and Security for Development (PSD) programme and other key civil society players in the region including Yes Youth Can (YYC) initiative.

The PSD programme has been running in the Coast Province for close to five years

with the generous support of well-meaning development partners, and the partner organizations, which include Kenya Muslim Youth Alliance (KMYA), have invested immense material and human resources in civic education engagements aimed at promoting peaceful co-existence in this multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and multi-religious programme.

But the recent inter-ethnic violence in Tana River and the deadly street protests in Mombasa which later assumed the character of an inter-religious conflict should prompt PSD partners to rethink their strategies.

Indeed, the magnitude of the violence in Tana River and Mombasa where the PSD programme has been running must have caught many, including the PSD partners themselves, by surprise. The violence experienced in the last one week in these two areas should be used by PSD network members to re-strategize their community outreach activities and engagement in order to improve delivery on the programme’s objectives.

But learning from the lessons provided by the violence in Tana River and Mombasa, it may be imperative for the PSD partners to transform the PSD programme to be a vehicle that can take the various communities in Coast Province to an environment of peaceful co-existence irrespective of their ethnic, religious and cultural differences.

How that transformation would be achieved is a matter the PSD partners should discuss among themselves and with the development partners in order to come up with a more concrete and effective strategy that would ensure peaceful coexistence in the

Coast region, which has now proved beyond reasonable doubt that it is indeed a security fault line.

An analysis of events preceding the violence in Tana River and Mombasa reveals that there was sufficient intelligence, which, if acted upon promptly by relevant authorities, would have at least reduced the magnitude of the crises, if not avert them.

But as PSD partners have often always pointed out in their reports, there is always a failure by the government security apparatus to act promptly on intelligence reports, thus leaving isolated incidents of violence to snowball into full-blown conflicts.

Besides, the current overall administrative structures in the civilian security apparatus seem to have contributed to the failure by those apparatus to respond effectively to threats of violence.

For example, almost all the top bureaucrats in charge of national security, beginning from the minister, head of public service and permanent secretary, are all holding their positions in acting capacity. On the other hand, the looming changes in the Kenya Police Service and the provincial administration have left many duty bearers on matters of national security uncertain about their future in employment, thus killing their morale in executing their duties effectively at this point in time when the country is headed to yet another high-stakes General Election.

In view of the foregoing, it is high time PSD partners held urgent consultations on how to re-strategize the Peace and Security for Development programme so that it can meet the new challenges emerging in the Coast region.

The New DawnSeptember 1 - September 15, 2012. Feature/ 5

Why this radio fan ticks

By Iddi Musyemi

Ali Hussein talks about radio as you would of a good friend. If you are wondering where you have heard this name, he is one

of the most active contributors to 95.1 Iqra FM’s interactive programmes who calls from Thika.

‘Ali Kenya’ as he is fondly referred to by radio Iqra FM salaam fans, his person does not match his voice. With a strong built body and a height approximately of 5’5”, it is unbelievable that he has a boyish voice. He clears this out and says that he has been faced with this enigma many times before and proceeds swiftly to talk about his interests in radio.

This friendship, Ali says, has developed over a period of time and very soon he hopes to commit to it.

“I want to be a radio news presenter,” he intimates. With his contributions, he believes that his dreams will soon become a reality.

Ali, 26, tells of how he loves reading newspapers to those who have time to listen. It makes him feel like he is working on his childhood dreams.

He wants to be ready so that when the opportunity comes for him to be inside a studio, he wouldn’t be afraid.

As many people regard radio as no more than a wireless communication receiver, Ali sees it as a social contraption. To him the radio has made it possible for people, including friends and strangers, to share opinion on topical issues, talk and listen to each other with the help of FM stations.

An ardent fan of Iqra FM, salaams (greetings) programme is his most favourite though he makes contributions through call-in sessions to offer his opinion on various topical issues.

He says when he started listening to Iqra FM he felt at home and caught some sort of need rather than want to be turning his radio on and tuning to Nairobi’s only Muslim station. Now he does not think whether he can go a day without listening.

To prove his point he tells of a story when he had to quit his job to be near where he could tune in without much of a hustle.

“I was employed in Limuru in a pharmacy but while there I found that I couldn’t tune to Iqra,” he says.

“So in order to quit the job and go back to Thika, I made up a reason that the pay was too little and demanded at least Sh50,000. The owner of the place had to let me go.”

Hardly a day goes by without this radio programmes enthusiast featuring in talk shows, thus making his a household name.

He was happy to be where he could get what he wanted by tuning in.

But this husband to Fatma Abdalla and father of a 10 month old baby boy does not just sit at home to listen to his radio. He is employed in Thika and when he is not at work he tends to his leased farm growing vegetables for sale at major towns.

Neither has he limited his social life to those he meets on the radio only. Ali, by the way he interacts with his neighbours, you can tell he has a good relation with all. His warm interaction with people of Gatukuyu, just outside Thika town, underlines the good welcome accorded to him and his young family.

“They call me Hajj or Msumeno,” which is fine with him as those are the two names he is popularly known by.

Situated 30 minutes from Thika town Gatukuyu is a rural place with lush farming lands and the Muslim community is sparse in this area.

Ali describes the number of Muslims as “not enough to make Jamaa (congregation) during prayer times” in the community. What he would have been getting from mosque sermons’ and Friday prayers, he gets from his radio.

“I get to hear Muslim concerns on the radio, get my knowledge from there, and also mawaidha.”

Ali has also picked up a passion for poetry. He says he has already composed a number of kaswidas and other poems.

While none of them has been made public, he promises to do something very soon to entertain Muslim community with his work.

“All that is remaining right now is just recording which I am in short of funds currently.”

While he does not aim for fame, he says he has somehow become one in the circle of Iqra fans. He is a member of the Al-Iqra group which draws its membership from other Iqra FM listeners.

If all goes well for him, he says, he will be at the level of Aisha Omar and Nur Said who are both presenters at Iqra FM and he has come to grow to liking them.

It is only then he will realise that what started as a simple friendship bloomed into something more meaningful that he would have ever imagined.

(Top) Ali Hussein during the interview and (Inset) with his favourite radio unit that has made him famous.

The New Dawn is published twice a month.

Kenya Muslim Youth Alliance,Waiyaki Way, Nairobi.

P.O Box 27592-00100, Nairobi-Kenya. Tel:254-(0)20-4445518/0732 550 440

Email: editor@thenewdawn.info Website:www.thenewdawn.info

Shawwal 14, 1433 A.H

The New DawnSeptember 1 - September 15, 2012.6 / Editorial

DISCLAIMER: Views and opinions expressed in this paper are not necessarily those of The Kenya Muslim Youth Alliance.The Editor welcomes brief letters on topical issues.

Tel:+254-(0)20-4445518 or 0732 550 440Email: editor@thenewdawn.info

Or SMS: 0710 30 08 48 The Editor reserves the right to edit all letters for length and clarity.

Letters of the week

Commentary|Iddi Musyemi

Ban on holiday tuition will allow pupils time for madrassa

Interfaith issue was informative

Kenya needs to invest continuously

in peace and security

As the countdown to the General Elections draws nearer, the socio-political climate in Kenya appears to be taking a worrying trend. Events of the last three months

especially in North Eastern and Coastal parts of the country are reminiscent of the interethnic clashes of 1992 and 1997 as well as the infamous post-election violence experienced in 2008.

First, the formerly outlawed Mombasa Republican Council (MRC) with its “Pwani si Kenya” secessionist agenda had been a big threat to national security before it was sagaciously handled by the Judiciary and advised to pursue its agenda through constitutional avenues.

The Garissa grenade explosions where several people lost lives in church had the potential of drawing the country into interreligious tension had both Muslim and Christian religious leaders not acted swiftly and resolved the issue by declaring that these were criminal acts which had nothing to do with religion.

The most recent inter-clan clashes between the Garre and Dagodia clans in Mandera and Wajir counties apparently caused by political rivalry for county positions tends to indicate devolution of violence. Almost simultaneously happening, the inter-ethnic massacres pitting the pastoralist Orma against the agriculturalist Pokomo in Tana River County presumably due to conflicts over grazing land had all the potentials of taking political dimensions.

Then comes the latest real test to Kenya’s security; the mysterious murder of Muslim preacher Aboud Rogo in Mombasa which not only sparked violent demonstrations against the government but also risked developing into an interreligious war between Muslims and Christians as churches were also targeted. Here again, religious leaders responded with speed to cool tempers by assuring Kenyans that there was no religious war in Kenya and that the violence must be treated as any other criminal acts.

What is clear about the aforementioned incidents of insecurity is that either the government is still lacking in capacity to maintain peace in the country or is not serious about it. In most cases, politicians and provincial administration have been accused of responding a bit too late contrary to public expectation.

This is a wake-up call that the country needs to appraise its capacity to handle peace and security matters. Proper and well-funded institutions for promoting peace are necessary. The issue of national peace and security is just too important to be left to religious leaders and village committees.

Provincial administration and security agencies must be empowered through relevant training, equipment and communication infrastructure to enable them preempt any threats to security or execute rapid response to incidents of violence anywhere in Kenya. Politicians need to be more accountable and responsible as many acts of violence have political origins. The Judiciary must also institute stiff penalties to those accused of violence in order to serve as a lasting deterrent to others.

In a nutshell, Kenyans should not take peace for granted. Peace building and maintenance of security must be a continuous duty whether there is war or not, elections or not.

Insecurity: Kenyans want somebody accountable

Holidays are over. Children will be going back to school from one of the

relaxing holidays ever. This time round, the government through the ministry of education actually enforced a law banning holiday tuitions.

That is why I call it one of the relaxing holidays ever.

But before we lose ourselves to the cause and effects of the ban to the school candidates, Muslim parents may want to think deeper about the, well I should say, the advantage the ban offered.

Think about it, parents have been complaining about never having enough time with their children. Muslim parents’ concerns stemmed from the fact that their children had no time to attend madrassa schools, which is essential for learning Islam.

This August there was an ample time and opportunity for parents to take their children to madrassas.

There was time for madrassa teachers to answer the many blank questions on children’s eyes in matters of their religious and moral responsibilities in a world where the only thing that seems to be growing

I appreciate coverage on religious coexistence in your esteemed newspaper that I received via email.

I had studied your paper deeply and find it a very informative and comprehensive newspaper. I appreciated that you are giving good coverage to religious harmony & peaceful coexistence; our think-tank has also been doing similar causes since 1995.

I have also submitted my research article on Kashmir. I will be grateful to your kind cooperation and media support.Tahir Tabassum Muhammad President, Institute of Peace & Development (INSPAD), via Email.

stronger is the market for vice and immoralities.

There was time for many things to families.

The cause for the banning of holiday tuitions was to allow children to have time to relax in other things, not necessarily play only. The argument by opponents of the law that holidays were the only time to finish the syllabus and revise did not go well with the ministry of education.

In fact the ministry believed that the tuitions had everything to do with commerce than they had with academic. To enforce this law, the government has turned back kids from schools in both public and private institutions.

The full effects of the law may only be known at the release of results for the 2012 examinations next year.

I believe when candidates go back to school there will be so much confusion. It will be a tiring race against time as the academic giants scramble to not complete their syllabus but also have enough time to revise.

It is going to be ugly for teachers, students and even parents.

I wouldn’t be very surprised if day school students are called back to school on Sundays.

But one of the most positive effects I expect to have come from the law is the opportunity that children this time went to madrassa.

The ban did not come anywhere near Muslim religious schools.

While there is no universal method in use to measure what children learn in these Muslim schools, the possibility of a child knowing how to read Arabic can be most of the time satisfying. Islam is an Arabic revelation after all!

There is possibility that the ban is here to stay. If this is so, then the challenge is to the madrassa systems to be calibrated into institutions of excellence which are open to the whole society not only Muslims.

Muslims have endured loses to the secular system of education. Here now there is an opportunity to claw back some time and use it to their advantage. When our children go back to schools, I expect all maalims will be going back to the drawing boards to prepare for when the next holidays come.

The recent chaos at coast has exposed the underbelly of Kenya’s security concerns. The violent demonstrations followed the killing of Aboud Rogo who was facing charges in court in connection with terror activities.

There was loss of life and damage to properties worth of millions not to forget the reputation of the place known as holiday destination to many.

In my suggestion this country is working hard to destroy itself as death follows its citizens in every corner when elections tend to approach. The killing of Rogo came hardly before the skirmishes

in Tana Delta and Wajir clashes have been settled.

Where are government security agencies when people are killing each other in this country? Who should people hold to account on the very many atrocities being committed against Kenyans?

We need to see bigger heads rolling in connection with chaos all over the country, not just taking some chiefs to court. The whole system is failing good citizens of this country, not to mention putting our lives and reputation in dangerous position.Abdulkarim Osam,Mvita-Mombasa.

MarhabaSaturday

Marhaba Fashion|P9

September 1 - September 15, 2012. (Shawwal 14, 1433 A.H)

Heena Art: A painless way to look beautiful

Wambui Kabage, a Nairobi-based advocate.

Continued on Pg 8

TV show helped

kick-start my career

in law

By Ethel Omenda

To comment on this story go to: www.thenewdawn.info

Born from a family with staunch Christian background, Wambui gives an insight on how she would not be the person she is

today if she was not a Muslim...

Childhood can inspire vision and dreams of what we wish to be in later stages of life. For others these are years

successful careers get crafted ready to hit the launch pad.

From a young age, Wambui aspired to become a lawyer. As she grew up, she was determined not to take up any other career path.

While her friends would be glued on television watching cartoons, she on the other hand was interested in something else. Just like one would be

patient enough to watch a favourite programme or talk shows, Fatuma would wait for ‘Reasonable Doubt’ a television programme aired on one of Kenya’s TV stations.

The show is about a deaf woman lawyer who defends criminals and talk of the rights of people. This show was inspirational to her.

As she talks to Marhaba, she says from watching the show, her interest in litigation matters began to take shape. “The show talked about women and it is something that touched me. I immediately got interested in advocating for children and women rights.”

After completing her ‘A’ Levels at Braeburn School in Nairobi, Wambui

headed to University of Wales in UK and attained her first degree. She returned to Kenya and headed to Kenya School of Law for a Higher Diploma course and qualified as an advocate.

Still not impressed about her academic achievement, she went ahead and attained her Masters in Law at the University of Sidney, Australia in 2005.

Wambui, 32, is now an advocate of the High Court of Kenya is proud of the positive impact the show had on her. Her dream career is now a reality as she is involved in some probona work at the children courts.

“I tackle criminal cases for children specifically because I feel the criminal system is harsh on our children when they are faced with criminal offences,”

Kid’s Corner|P10

she says.However, she is quick to comment

that in most cases these children are not actually guilty of the offences. She states that it is always somebody who has victimised them or just want to take advantage of the situation.

Having a general practice as a lawyer has enabled her handle commercial law to Islamic marriages and divorces. Fatuma says her participation in matters of land succession to the court martial systems with the Kenyan armed forces has been a great experience.

The New DawnSeptember 1 - September 15, 2012.8 Marhaba|Cover Story

Continued from Pg 7

TV show helped me chart my career

Wambui Kabage makes her contribution at a recent forum.

With her 12 years experience, she gives her expertise opinion on the high divorce rates among the Muslim couples. “Unfortunately divorce cases are on the rise. But I think it is a general problem, not only plaguing Muslims.”

According to this Nairobi based lawyer, divorce often occurs when people fail to understand their religion and appreciate their responsibilities as husbands and wives.

This results in inequality hence a sense of injustice because one partner feels he or she is being taken advantage of. Therefore one party makes the determination to move on. However, she states that the lack of religious knowledge as a community is one of the contributing factors towards failed marriages.

Interestingly, Wambui was born to a family with a very staunch Christian background. As a granddaughter of a Baptist reverend, she converted to Islam in 2001.This was after her mother who had a strong influence in her life became a Muslim.

“I had been reading materials on Islam before and was curious to why mum reverted to Islam. That later led me to a lot of self-discovery, prayer and Allah led me to Islam.”

Converting to Islam is a decision she says she would forever be greatful

and proud of. Having been Muslim for 12 years now she confesses that, “I don’t believe I would be the person I am if I was not a Muslim.”

Having accepted Islam she has donned the hijab. The initial three years wearing the hijab were challenging to Wambui and fortunately in 2005, she finally made a decision to start wearing it. “For me wearing hijab has been a

journey. It is a struggle that no man or woman can understand the kind of journey you take when you start wearing hijab.”

Wambui’s appreciation goes to the young Muslim girls who wear hijab from puberty. She says these girls are blessed in two ways. Her reasons are because these girls have never suffered the vanity of the world and so they

don’t really appreciate what they have.For Wambui, the hijab has so far

helped her in her career. “Wearing the hijab has actually benefited me because I actually stand out and that helps in my practise and other things.”

Striking a balance between work and family is quite challenging for every woman. Wambui is also a lecturer at the Kenya School of Law. As a married woman with two children and expecting a third child, she definitely agrees that balancing between the two is a huge task. “You will never achieve balance. All you need is to prioritise and try to end in a place you feel your Maker is happy with you.”

Wambui is also a managing partner at the Ekuru Kabage Nyamathwe and Company Advocates, a law firm in Nairobi. As a young Muslim career woman, she believes she is an example to other young girls and women who believe they can’t be career women because they are Muslims.

Her advice to all Muslim women is that, the strongest and powerful force as a woman is to be a person of conviction. Wambui advises that if one is a Muslim, let her be a Muslim of conviction. She adds that an individual has to be a woman who believes in their faith and why they are Muslim. “Allah will then open doors you can’t imagine.”

She concludes, saying that prayer is essential as it is the only thing that can get one through everything in life.

(Top and Left) Patterns and designs that can be achieved with heena. (Below) Heena paste, powder and the plant, Lawsonia inermis.

What you need to know about Heena

The New DawnSeptember 1 - September 15, 2012. 9Marhaba|Fashion

H O W A R T I S T I C PAT T E R N S C A N T R A N S F O R M YO U

Heena Art

Henna is a plant under the sole species in the genus Lawsonia in the family Lythraceae and come under different names in different parts

of the world. Heena is best known for its use to color and condition the hair naturally.

The henna plant, grows in warm climates. The leaves from the plant are crushed and make into a paste to safely draw a design directly on the skin. The result of this temporary tattoo, traditionally reddish brown in color, will last from a few days to several weeks. The application process is painless and in no way harms the skin.

The word “henna” comes from the Arabic name for the plant, pronounced or colloquially. It is also an Islamic name given to girls which means blessed.

How long does it last?The design will look good for 1 to 2 weeks, fading

gradually within that time.Factors determining this are:• Depth of the stain • Part of the body it is applied to • Exposure to water, chemicals and rubbing

What is the color of the henna stain?After the paste comes off, the stain color ranges from

orange to a dark reddish brown. Henna alone does not produce a black stain. There are

several authentic additives or mixtures that give a black-dying henna, especially in north Africa. However, these formulas could be toxic and unhealthy for the body.

The darkness depends on the following:• Part of the body it is applied to (the hands and feet stain the darkest) • Quality of the henna powder • Quality of the application • Amount of time the paste is left on (best to leave it on for at least 4 hours)

How long does it take to do?The length of sitting time ranges from 5 to 10 minutes

for a simple design up to several hours for a large body area painted with an intricate deign. Although the painting itself may take only a few minutes, the paste needs to be preserved with a lemon-sugar solution which the artist applies after the paste becomes firm on the skin about 15 minutes later.

Henna is applied to the top of the skin with an applicator (the traditional cone or plastic bag or with a bottle with a fine silver nozzle tip). Many people enjoy the coolness of the paste as it is painted on along with the further cooling of the lemon-sugar solution. The henna paste is an all natural soothing, aromatic mixture that conditions the skin.

The New DawnSeptember 1 - September 15, 2012.10 Marhaba|Kids Corner

ATTENTIoN CHILDrEN: If you wish to appear on this page, send us your digital photo, name, age school/madrassa/hobbies, hadiths, poems among others to: info@thenewdawn.info

Thanks to head teacher Abdullahi Ibrahim Adan and religious teacher Dahir Omar.

with pupils of ryan Academy, Eastleigh

How much do you know about the month of Shawwal?

Name: Zuhir Abdimahat; Age: 6 years; Class: 7; School: Ryan Academy School, Nairobi; Best Subjects: Quran, Hadith & Science; I want to be a: Doctor.

Name: Farhia Sharif; Age: 11 years; Class: 2A; School: Ryan Academy School, Nairobi; Best Subjects: Hadith, IRE & Science; I want to be a: Ustadha.

Name: Kulthum Mohammad; Age: 13 years; Class: 5; School: Ryan Academy School, Nairobi; Best Subjects: Quran & Hadith; I want to be a: Pilot.

Name: Azal Abdikadhir; Age: 10 years; Class: 3; School: Ryan Academy School, Nairobi; Best Subjects: IRE, Quran & English; I want to be a: Gyneacologist.

Name: Aisha Abdikadhir; Age: 4 years; Class: 7; School: Ryan Academy School, Nairobi; Best Subjects: Quran, Arabic & Science; I want to be a: Neurosurgeon.

Name: Omar Abdinasir; Age: 6 years; Class: PreUnit; School: Ryan Academy School, Nairobi; Best Subjects: IRE, Quran & Arabic; I want to be a: Teacher.

Name: Fahat Mahad; Age: 13 years; School: Ryan Academy School, Nairobi; Best Subjects: Social Studies & Towhid; I want to be a: Engineer.

Name: Abdi Majid Jamaa; Age: 5 years; Class: PreUnit; School: Ryan Academy School, Nairobi; Best Subjects: Quran, Math & Science; I want to be a: Doctor.

Name: Abdi Kadir; Age: 14 years; Class: 4A; School: Ryan Academy School, Nairobi; Best Subjects: Science, Math & English & Arabic; I want to be a: Politician.

Name: Abubakar Abdirahman; Age: 6 years; Class: PreUnit; School: Ryan Academy School, Nairobi; Best Subjects: Quran, Arabic & Science; I want to be a: Pilot.

Your Hobbies

Shawwal is the tenth month on the Lunar Islamic calendar. The

first day of Shawwal is Eid ul-Fitr. Shawwal means (lift or carry).

The Islamic calendar is a lunar calendar, and months begin when the first crescent of a new moon is sighted. Since the Islamic lunar calendar year is 11 to 12 days shorter than the solar year, Shawwal migrates throughout the seasons.

There are also six days of fasting during Shawwal which, together with the Ramadhan fasts, are equivalent to fasting perpetually).

Thus Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: (He who observed the fast of Ramadhan and then followed it with six (fasts) of Shawwal. It would be as if he fasted perpetually), narrated by Muslim.

Shawwal is the first of the three months named as (Ashhur al-Hajj) (The months of Hajj). Although the major acts of Hajj are normally performed in the first ten days of Dhul-Hajj, yet the whole period starting from the first of Shawwal up to the 10th of Dhul-Hajj is held to be the period of Hajj because some acts of Hajj can be performed any time during this period.

Let’s learn together...

Benefits of fasting six days during the month

of ShawwalAccording to hadiths narrated by Abu Dawud, Ahmad, Ibn

Majah, Muslim & Tirmidhi; Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: (He who fasts Ramadan, and six of Shawwal, it will be (in terms of rewards) as if the fasted a whole year).

Another important benefit of fasting six days of Shawwal is to makes up for any shortfall in a person’s obligatory Ramadan fasting, because no one is free of shortcomings or sins that have a negative effect on his fasting. On the Day of Resurrection, some of his naafil (voluntary) deeds will be taken to make up the shortcomings in his obligatory deeds.

The Holy Prophet (SAW) said: (The first thing for which people will be brought to account on the Day of Resurrection will be their salah (prayer). Our Lord, may He be glorified and exalted, will say to His angels – although He knows best – (Look at the salah of My slave, whether it is complete or incomplete. (If it is perfect, it will be recorded as perfect, and if something is lacking, He will say, (Look and see whether My slave did any voluntary (naafil) prayers. (If he did some voluntary prayers, [Allah] will say, complete the obligatory actions of My slave from his voluntary actions. (Then all his actions will be dealt with in a similar manner), narrated by Abu Dawud.

The New Dawn,September 1 - September 15, 2012. Feature /11

Impending elections and stability in Somali offers businessmen an opportunity rebuild the country as well as make money

Somalia peace prospects bring business windfall to Eastleigh

By Mohamed Kahiye

Nairobi’s Eastleigh area is considered to have deep political and socio-economical connections

with the neighbouring Somalia. Thanks to the huge Somali population residing in the area, Eastleigh’s business community is poised to play a major role in ensuring that the war-torn country gets back on its feet.

If the ongoing attempts at a democratically elected leadership are anything to go by and the push by Amisom to purge the country from the Al-Shabaab militia and the Al-Qaeda diehards, many businesses are bidding time before they can cash in on opportunities waiting to be exploited as Somalia returns to normalcy.

Already established businesses in Eastleigh are playing “silent roles” in helping back in Somalia. From five star hotels, travel agencies and lodges to textile printing industries steps are slowly being taken to ensure that there will be Kenya’s foot prints in major cities of Somalia when the country sobers from the ravages of war.

Ali Ahmed Salat, 38, is a budding businessman and one of those playing a role in rebuilding Somalia. An artisan by profession, Salat is finding business from Somalia taking orders to print promotional messages of peace on different items.

Through his company, Graphic Design Company situated in Eastleigh,

his speciality in promotional items like banners, bumper stickers, printings and brandings has earned him recognition and business back in Somalia where he transports goods on order.

“I get orders from Mogadishu which I design and ensure they contain messages that promote peace,” he says. “It feels good to be part and parcel of promoting peace in Somalia through my company.”

Though Salat is not in Somalia preaching peace, his messages can be found in major cities and streets calling for restoration of peace and hope upon the residents.

“Prospects of peace in Somalia have excited the Somali’s Diaspora community and we facilitate their flights from Europe and Asia through Nairobi,” says the managing director of Eastleigh Mall branch of Amazon Travel Agency Abdifatah Ali Adan.

Since there are no direct flights to Somalia currently, Adan’s agency assists thousands of Somalis willing to go home by ensuring that their journeys are well catered for on their way to Mogadishu through Nairobi. The certain ousting of Al-Shabaab from Mogadishu has improved perceptions as more people are going in.

“Initially, there was one flight weekly but due to the increased numbers of passengers we have three to four flights daily,” he says. This has not only led to ticket price hikes but also caught the attention of other international airlines.

“A while ago, an air ticket from Nairobi to Mogadishu was US$ 200 dollars (Sh17,000). For now owing to the high demand, tickets have shot up to 250 dollars,” he adds.

Adan’s agency caters for refugees in camps also but the challenge is bigger because the authorities on both sides have made the process difficult in clearing people to go back. His appeal to both governments is to necessitate a fast clearance of people willing to go back home considering that many have no valid travel documents. Some people, he says, have been turned back to camps on the day of departure.

Elections in Somalia have already been scheduled for this year. Both Salat and Adan agree that all citizens of Somalia should be given a chance to express their freedom to choose.

“The civil war forced many professionals to flee the country and there is need to bring them to rebuild the country,” Salat says.

The challenges to a clean break for Somalia are overwhelming but with the help of the neighbouring countries and friendly nations, the horn of Africa will be able to commit to peace.

“We need the support of the international community through this journey of rebuilding Somalia,” he pleads.

Adan believes that Somalia’s flight path from war and inter-clan power struggles to peace may not be as rough

as flying into a storm as long as all East African countries create a conducive climate in which the only interests will be the safety of its citizens and all visitors. “Peace in Somalia is peace in the region.”

Even those living in Eastleigh know.

(Top Left) Amazon Travel Agency managing director, Abdifatah Ali Adan. (Top Right) An employee of Graphic and Art Design Company shows off items the company produces (Inset) Ali Ahmed Salat, the proprietor.

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The New DawnSeptember 1 - September 15, 2012. Global Forum / 13

Syrian President Bashir Al Assad talks to Syrian troops fighting rebels in a captured city. Left: Protestors burn a photo of Assad.

By Agencies

Forces at play in the Syrian crisis

It is clear that the situation in Syria is complex. Future developments will depend on the

government’s ability to establish a civil dialogue in the country, carry out political reforms...

It would be no exaggeration to say that the Syrian crisis has become the most important international issue of the day.

Dramatic changes are sweeping a huge region where the interests of many countries, including Russia, the United States, China and EU nations intersect. Temperatures are rising in the Middle East, and may soon reach the boiling point. It was interesting, therefore, amid the blizzard of global media reporting based sometimes on less than direct sourcing, to hear about events in Syria directly from officials in Damascus with whom the author of this article recently met.

Most world media portray the Syrian regime as increasingly isolated in the international community, with little to hope for but continued support from Russia (which in turn, that narrative goes, is driven exclusively by commercial interests). However, Syrian officials say that the situation is not nearly so dire.

They point out that Chinese Deputy Foreign Minister Zhai Jun’s recent visit to Syria made clear that Beijing, like Moscow, does not intend to abandon President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Iran, itself subjected to tough international pressure, views Syria as an important friend in the Arab world and, therefore, is also actively supporting the regime. It has already made a symbolic gesture by twice sending its ships to the Mediterranean Sea.

It is telling that Egypt, which is not particularly sympathetic to Damascus officially (and even recalled its ambassador from Damascus), allowed Iranian warships to pass through the Suez Canal on these occasions. Therefore, it is premature to say that Egypt, the most populous Arab country, has unequivocally renounced Syria. Here it is important to draw a distinction between

the government’s official statements from its deeds.

Moreover, in confidential conversations, Syrian officials make it clear that Syria is developing a special relationship with Iraq, which sympathizes with Syria’s efforts to stabilize the domestic situation. It is quite probable that with the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq, Iran, Iraq and Syria will at some point naturally form a loose, tripartite alliance in the Middle East. Given that the majority of the Iraqis are Shiite and Iran’s growing influence in Iraq in the last few years, such a scenario is by no means improbable. Oman is also giving Syria some support.

Syrian officials, including Vice President Najah al-Attar and Deputy Foreign Minister Faisal Mekdad, with whom a group of Russian experts (and the author of this article) met recently, mention Turkey, Qatar and Israel among the main instigators of international pressure on Syria, along with the United States standing behind them. The American factor in the Syrian crisis (and, to a lesser extent, the Israeli factor) is one of the main topics of discussion in Damascus at the moment. Syrians emphasize that the main target of the United States and Israel is not Syria but rather Iran, and that they are interested in destabilizing Syria for the sole purpose of depriving Tehran of a “counter play” in the Middle East in the event of a military operation against Iran. In general, the Syrian political elite is convinced that there is an international conspiracy against Damascus.

Israel’s role in the Syrian events is a sensitive issue for Syrians, considering Israel’s continued occupation of the Golan Heights. Indeed, even high-ranking Syrian officials claim they possess evidence showing that the Syrian Muslim Brotherhood has direct links to the Israeli government.

Speaking about the role of the Syrian opposition, Syrian officials note its heterogeneous character. Far from all of Assad’s opponents are taking up arms to achieve their goals. On the contrary, a significant portion of Assad’s opponents are also fundamentally opposed to foreign interference in the form of sanctions or military intervention. The reforms planned by the Syrian government are aimed at winning over these peaceful members of the opposition. These reforms include a referendum on a new constitution that would end the Ba’ath Party’s monopoly on power and set presidential term limits.

Some of Assad’s vocal opponents (notably those who speak from outside Syria), backed energetically by a handful of Western states led by the United States, insist that the time for finding a peaceful solution in Syria has run out. And that weapons and use of force are the only viable option left. However, the Syrian government supported by other states that also know the country well and even by a portion of Assad’s political opponents in the country, say the window of dialogue is not yet closed. Like the foreign supporters of Syria’s opposition, the authorities in Damascus want to halt

bloodshed in the country. The only question is how. The Syrian government supposes that if the new constitution is approved and parliamentary elections are successfully held in May, the prerequisites for stabilization will be in place.

The Syrian government has high hopes for constitutional reform. Information Minister Adnan Mahmoud said it “will set an example for the entire region.” Judging by the contents of some of its provisions, published by the media, this is certainly the case, at least as long as authoritarian and theocratic states like Saudi Arabia exist. Riyadh could never contemplate such reforms.

However, it is important to remember that there are armed radicals among the Syrian opposition – even the United States officially acknowledges this – and they appear to be fighting to the end, targeting Assad regime loyalists in their campaign of terror. Al-Attar also noted the problem of illegal arms supplies from Turkey and Lebanon and that Turkey’s role in the current crisis came as a surprise for the Syrian leaders. “We didn’t expect Turkey to play such a role in the unfolding events,” she said.

Interestingly, the actions of opposition commanders also came as a surprise for Damascus. Mekdad said that “initially even high-ranking Syrian officials did not fully understand the nature of events.” Syrian politicians did not expect demonstrations to last this long and did not take all the necessary measures to neutralize their negative effects in the initial phase.

It is clear that the situation in Syria is complex. Future developments will depend on the government’s ability to establish a civil dialogue in the country, carry out political reforms and deprive the armed wing of the opposition of any support from the population. Damascus deserves help in these efforts. Also peace in Syria depends on the world understanding that the reality on the ground in this country today is not necessarily as simple as much of the media reporting.

The New DawnSeptember 1 - September 15, 2012.14 / Muslim World round-Up

By Agencies

By Agencies

By Agencies

By Agencies

Palestinians gathered in front of the late Yasser Arafat’s portrait.

By Agencies

Saudi king sits next to Iran leader at summit in goodwill gesture

BRIEFS

Poll shows Islamophobia high among Republicans

France opens murder inquiry into Arafat’s death

French prosecutors have opened a murder inquiry into the death of Yasser Arafat, his widow’s lawyer said, after she and a TV investigation raised new questions about whether the Palestinian leader was poisoned.

There have long been rumors in the Arab world that Arafat was poisoned, and a Swiss lab’s recent finding of elevated levels of polonium-210 - a rare and highly lethal radioactive substance - on Arafat’s clothing has fed those claims.

However, the Institute of Radiation Physics said its findings were inconclusive and that only exhuming Arafat’s remains could bring possible clarity. Palestinian officials have waffled on that matter - initially approving the exhumation and then saying the matter needed more study - only further fueling suspicions.

Arafat died in a French military hospital in 2004 of what doctors have said was a massive stroke, but the Swiss lab’s tests have renewed interest in his death. The findings were first broadcast by Arab satellite TV station Al-Jazeera, which approached the lab on behalf of Arafat’s widow, Suha. She

provided the lab with his clothing and other belongings.

After the results were released, Suha Arafat filed a complaint in French court asking for a murder investigation. Her lawyer, Pierre-Olivier Sur, confirmed that the prosecutor’s office in Nanterre, a town west of Paris, has agreed to take up the matter. Next, a judge will be appointed to lead the inquiry.

Sur said in a statement that his client would not comment because she wanted to let the judge do his work.

Arafat, who died at age 75, is buried in a mausoleum in the walled government compound where he spent the last three years of his life under Israeli siege.

Testing Arafat’s bones for polonium-210 could offer the last chance to get to the bottom of Palestinian claims that their leader was poisoned, though some experts say it may already be too late for conclusive answers.

Scientists caution that polonium decays quickly and that an autopsy needs to be done quickly.

Although Palestinian officials have long accused Israel of being involved in Arafat’s death, Israel has vehemently denied those charges.

Study shows Southeast Asia

Muslims most devout

Muslims in Southeast Asian are among the most devout in the world, being the most enthusiastic followers of the five pillars of Islam, including Zakah, prayers and fasting, a new survey has found.

Annual almsgiving, which by custom is supposed to equal approximately 2.5% of a person’s total wealth, is almost as widely observed as fasting during Ramadhan, the Pew Research Center said in a new survey cited by the Wall Street Journal.

In Southeast Asia and South Asia, the median of roughly nine-in-ten Muslims say they performed Zakah. Muslims Unite in Core, Differ in Religiosity

The survey found that Muslims in Southeast Asia were more enthusiastic than those in Africa, Asia, Europe and even the Middle East in upholding most of these pillars.

The poll, which included about 5,000 people from the region, showed that Muslims of Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand were often among the most enthusiastic followers of some of the five pillars of Islam.

Some 98% of Indonesians said they pay Zakah annually, followed by 93% of Malaysians and Thais.

Those were among the three highest rates for charity in the world.

In other Muslim communities, less than 80% of those surveyed paid Zakah.

An earlier study released by Pew research center has found that Muslims make up around one fourth of the world’s population and are mostly concentrated in Asia.

It found that Muslims make up 23 percent of the world’s 6.8 billion people, the sweeping majority of them are Sunnis.

According to the study, based on data from 232 countries and territories, Asia is home to nearly 20 percent of the global Muslim population.

It showed that the Middle East and North Africa have 315 million Muslims, about 20 percent of the world’s Muslims.

One-fifth of world Muslims (300 million) was found to be living in non-Muslim countries.

Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah sat next to Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to welcome leaders to a summit, an apparent conciliatory gesture before the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation was expected to suspend the membership of Iran’s ally Syria.

Foreign ministers of the 57-member body have already agreed to suspend Syria over President Bashar al-Assad’s crackdown on protests. The decision, which requires support of two thirds of members and is strongly opposed by Tehran, is expected to be implemented at a summit called by Abdullah in the holy city of Mecca.

Syria’s civil war has divided Muslim countries on sectarian lines, with Sunni-led Arab states and Turkey backing Syria’s

rebels, while Shi’ite Iran supports Assad.Sunni Saudi Arabia and Shi’ite Iran

have tussled for influence in recent years in sectarian conflicts across the Middle East. In giving Iran’s leader such a prominent place at the summit - shown on Saudi state television - King Abdullah was making what analysts described as an important gesture.

Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah and Iran President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

Indonesian Muslim women offer Taraweeh prayers.

Non-Aligned summit ends without deal on Syria

The annual conference of Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), meeting that converged in Iran has concluded with no deal on Syria. The grouping of 120 nations whose foreign ministers had earlier agreed on a draft statement to end the crisis in Syria, which included opposing foreign intervention and welcoming UN-Arab League envoy Lakhdar Brahimi.

However, that statement was never made public and was not mentioned after a closed-door meeting of heads of state later.

Earlier, Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi’s comments that it was an “ethical duty” to support the Syrian people against the “oppressive regime” in Damascus sparked a walkout by the Syrian delegation.

Anti-Muslim and anti-Arab views are pervasive among members of the Republican Party, according to new poll suggests.

According to a survey on views toward various religions commissioned by the Arab American Institute, Republican sentiment toward Muslims produced the highest negative results, with 57 percent of respondents saying they had unfavorable opinions. Only 26 percent said they had favorable opinions.

Republicans gave Muslim-Americans slightly higher marks, responding 47 percent unfavorably and 35 percent favorably. Though not gauging a direct religious following, the results were similar on questions regarding Arabs, who received 53 percent unfavorable to 27 percent favorable responses, as well as Arab-Americans, who received 48 percent unfavorable to 33 percent favorable responses.

Respondents on the other side of the aisle also provided less-negative responses toward Muslims. Among Democrats, 29 percent gave unfavorable responses, though 49 percent responded favorably.

This findings may also help understand the underlying sentiment behind some of the most vehement dislike of President Barack Obama in segments on the right. Polling has consistently shown that rather large percentages of registered Republicans still believe the president is a Muslim, despite his repeated references to his Christian faith.

The speed sisters of Palestine

South African Hashim Amla nominated for Cricketer of the Year award

South Africa’s Cricketer, Hashim Amla.

The New DawnSeptember 1 - September 15, 2012. 15

SportBOXING

SPORT EXTRA

MOTOR SPORT

‘Clash of the Champions’ boxing event set for Arab world

Four World Arab boxing champions will fight it out in what is set to be the biggest boxing event in the Arab world.

Makan Kabouti’s challenge of world champion Farid Idir in the 100kg heavyweight category will be the highlight of the night in the ‘Clash of the Champions’ Arab boxing event to be staged at Al Wasl Club on October 19.

Idir, 27, who represents Belgium, has an impressive record of 23 wins by knockout and will be eager to stop his challenger from Sudan. Kabouti is no stranger to the ring as he has 26 KOs from 29 fights so far.

Besides the heavyweight category highlight, the night will also feature

another four bouts involving professional boxers from across the world, along with another five amateur fights.

World champion Samba Bocar of Mauritania faces a challenge from double European champion Tuncay Murate, of Turkey, in the 75kg super middleweight category.

Algeria’s Yacine Berrabah will be the third world champion in the ring as he takes on Italian challenger Anass El Aourarz, who is a double European champion in the 65kg semi-middleweight category.

The fourth fight will also feature a world champion as David Douge of Austria takes on Libya’s Yannis Ladjal in

the 71kg middleweight class. The fifth professional fight will see Tunisia’s Touka Sofian face off against Morocco’s Yassin Nrhailat in the 72kg category.

The five amateur fights will involve amateur boxers from the UAE, Sudan, Morocco, Jordan, Egypt and Syria.

The action will get under way with Zalim Roslanov of Russia taking on Mohammad Tah Hassen of Sudan in the featherweight 58kg category, followed by the UAE’s Ahmed Darmaki facing Morocco’s Said Bouhrasi in the semi-middleweight 65kg category.

There will also be an Indian boxer involved as Raj Reddy takes on Mohammad Abdullah of Jordan in the semi-middleweight 68kg category.

The ‘Clash of the Champions’, to be held under the auspices of world governing body FIBA in coordination with the Dubai Sports Council (DSC) and Dubai Police’s Anti-Drug campaign, is an attempt to popularise Arab boxing in the region.

Faisal Al Monai of Alphadomino, organisers of the event, said Dubai is the appropriate place to spread Arab boxing in the region. “For the first time we have challengers from Sudan, Libya and Mauritania and this can only help Arab boxing,” he said.

Hessa Al Kous of Dubai Sports Council announced that professional fighters will share from a total prize pot ranging from $30,000 (Dh110,000) to $1.2 million, while winners in the amateur categories will receive medals.

Hedi Sediri (second left), president of FIBA, addressing a press conference at the Dubai Sports Council headquarters.

Palestinian race car driver Noor Dawood.

A group of six women, Muslims and Christians from their 20s to mid-30s, have battled sceptical parents, the realities of the Israeli occupation and a sometimes disapproving public to become local stars and even the subject of a documentary.

“We feel we are free when we’re doing this,” teammate Mona Ennab, 26, said. “It’s a way to escape everything around us.”

Jayyusi, 36, said her love of speed was born out of frustrating hours stuck in long lines at Israeli checkpoints.

Jayyusi had to take lessons behind her parents’ backs after graduating with a business degree from Bir Zeit University, saving up her salary to pay for them.

In 2010, the skills displayed in her daily commute drew notice and she was approached by the head of the Palestinian Motor Sport and Motorcycle Federation, Khaled Qaddoura.

He offered Jayyusi the chance to participate in a training camp for drivers sponsored by the British Council, along with several other women, all with different levels of experience - and the Speed Sisters were born.

Ennab also started driving without her family’s permission before she was old enough to even take lessons. “I used to steal my sister’s car and drive it around without a licence,” she laughed.

Both women at first kept their speedracing secret from their families. Jayyusi’s parents found out thanks to a local newspaper report.

Ennab’s family has also come round to their daughter’s need for speed, and her mother is now a fixture at all her competitions across the West Bank.

Betty Saadeh, 31, another team member, faced no such challenge. She comes from a family of racers and said her only pressure is competition from relatives.

Saadeh was born in Mexico then lived in the United States, but moved back to the West Bank with her family at the age of 13.

For Saadeh, racing isn’t political but she says she’s proud to represent the Palestinian Territories.

Prolific South African batsman Hashim Amla has been lined up for Cricketer of year award slated for mid-September as South Africa dominated the ICC annual award shortlist.

The ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year category features four players from the teams that took part in last year’s World Cup final in Mumbai.

Now in its ninth year, the ICC award ceremony is scheduled for Sept. 15 in Colombo.

Other Muslim cricketers on the ICC award shortlist include Women’s ODI Cricketer of the Year, Anisa Mohammed (West Indies) and Spirit of Cricket: Mohammad Hafeez (Pakistan).

September 1 - September 15, 2012.

The New Dawn is published by Kenya Muslim Youth Alliance, P.O Box 27592-00100, Nairobi-Kenya. Tel:254-(0)20-444 5518 or 0732 550 440Email:info@thenewdawn.info Website: www.thenewdawn.info

Sport | P15The speed sisters of Palestine

Muslim leaders condemn attacks on churches,appeal for peace and tolerance ahead of polls

Muslim leaders gathered under the umbrella of NAMLEF (National Muslim Leaders Forum) have sent a message of peace and apologised to their Christians brothers over recent incidents that have seen places of worship targeted or destroyed. They also sent a message of condolence to all those who were affected or lost their lives including the family of the slain cleric. Noting that this is not a religious war, they appealed to Kenyans of different faiths not to be used by people who wish to divide them along religious lines to create animosity. The leaders reiterated that there are avenues through which grievances can be addressed peacefully. They also took issue of the insecurity that has gripped area such as Wajir, Mandera, Garissa, Tana River and lately Mombasa.

By Mohamed Kahiye

Council calls upon leaders to work for peace to save Kenya

The African Council of Religious Leaders—Religions for Peace (ACRL—RfP) has called upon religious leaders from all faiths to join hands to restore peace in the country.

This comes following sudden rise in lawlessness, impunity, utter disregard for the sanctity of life and the destruction of places of worship in several parts of Kenya, including the latest violence in Mombasa, Kenya.

In a press statement dated August 29, the Council appealed to religious leaders to

cooperate in order to restore interfaith coexistence and advised youths against violence. “We are appealing to Christian and Muslim religious leaders in the coastal city of Mombasa and across the country, to work together to restore peace and better relations amongst their faith communities. The Council is appealing to the youth not to target for harm or destruction, any individual, groups, properties or places of worship,”

The Council also appealed to the Government of Kenya to apprehend those behind the spate of assassinations, and to reassure the nation that

the life of every Kenyan is protected.

The organization further expressed deep appreciation to the religious leaders who have already taken steps and moved in to prevent further violence, destruction of property including houses of worship and loss of lives. “We laud you for reducing tensions in various parts of the country. Let us continue to work together in the coming days to strengthen interfaith solidarity during these difficult moments to avert further bloodshed and destruction,” says the statement signed by ACRL Secretary General Dr. Mustapha Ali.

By Iddi Musyemi

Calm has returned to Mombasa.

Coast Muslim leaders attend church service in

show of solidarity

Only a week after chaos rocked the coastal city of Mombasa, Muslim clerics and leaders have joined Christian faithfuls in a peace campaign by attending

several church services in and around the the affected areas in a show of solidarity aimed at uniting local residents.

During the chaos triggered by the killing of Mombasa Muslim cleric, Sheikh Aboud Rogo, several

Churches were vandalised and burnt.

At PCEA Kisauni church service, Muslim clerics and civic leaders led by Kisauni MP Ali Hassan Joho, condemned the attacks terming them as acts of hooliganism and nothing to do with what Islamic faith professes.

A civic leader, Rashid Bedzemba from Kisuani urged youth to explore peaceful ways of airing their grievances. He also appealed to the government to bring to book the killers of the cleric.

The leaders also visited Neno Evangelism Centre.