Muslim body: ‘We do not follow rule of particular state’

The International Union of Muslim Scholars confirmed that it is not subject to the wishes of a ruler and does not follow the rules of a particular state insisting it works for the good of humanity.

“Since its inception, the Union has stood as a representative of moderate scholars and a fortification against terrorism and extremism from all sides and in all its forms. It repeatedly calls for the establishment of the principles of freedom, justice and equality all over the world,” it said in a statement today.

“We consider the attempt to weaken the position of the religious leadership of an institution that represents 90,000 Muslim scholars and hundreds of millions of Muslims for political purposes as unacceptable and irrational.”

Read: Saudi Arabia denies including Tunisia’s Ghannouchi on ‘terrorist list’

“We have consistently led religious dialogues with several parties to stand against extremism and terrorism and advocate peaceful coexistence,” the statement added.

“The union scholars provide direction, guidance, advocacy of moderation and religious tolerance to large numbers of scholars and teachers who deal with young people around the world today,” the statement clarified.   S

audi Arabia, Egypt, the UAE and Bahrain have included the International Union of Muslim Scholars, headed by Sheikh Yusuf Al-Qaradawi, in their recently released list of terrorist organisations.