The

Friday Bulletin
The Weekly Muslim News Update

NAME THEM!

Dhul Hajj 27 1431/December 03 2010

Issue No. 396

State challenged to name drug barons

Sheikh Muhammad Dor

Abdullahi abdi
Sheikh Ahmad Msallam
Muslim leaders have challenged the government-if it is sincere about fighting
drugs- to make known to the public the names of Members of Parliament and
senior government officials adversely mentioned for their involvement in the
illicit trade of narcotics.
The leaders also accused the government of failing to put in place a robust
There is a ray of hope for freedom for Kenyan citizen
strategic approach to fight the drug menace noting that despite giving leads
renditioned to Uganda after the Ugandan government
to security officials on drug traffickers, authorities have looked the other way
withdrew charges against 17 people who had been facwhile the lives of thousands of young people mainly in the Coast region are
ing charges of terrorism, murder and attempted murwrecked by drugs.
der.
The Prime Minister admitted that the names were forwarded to a government
Among those released after spending four months in
agency the Kenya Anti-Corruption Commission and there should be no reason
detention were 8 Kenyans, eight of whom were arrested
why they should not be made public, said Nominated MP Sheikh Muhammad
in Uganda following the devastating bombings in the
Dor.
capital Kampala on July 31.
United States envoy to Kenyan Michael Ranneburger announced a visa ban
Ismail Abubakar was the only person released among
against three MPs and a senior government official for their prominent role in
those who were deported from Kenya to Uganda in an
the drug trade in the country.
exercise which drew local and international condemnaSheikh Dor expressed disappointment that the government only appeared to
tions.
have realized the gravity of the matter after the intervention of a foreign diploDefence lawyers though expected the release, exmat. All along we have appealed to the government to take action and even
pressed disappointment that Al-Amin Kimathi, the exprovided names of prominent drug traffickers but little action was taken, he
ecutive director of the Muslim Human Rights Forum
said.
(MHRF) was not among those set free. We expected
The MP whose area of Mombasa is among the hardest hit by drug abuse said
charges against him to be dropped, said Ladislaus
the government needed to do more to convince Kenyans that it is serious
Rwakafuzi, the Ugandan lawyer representing the Kenabout fighting the vice which continues to devastate the lives of thousands of
yans.
youth. Our youth continue to be destroyed by drugs yet no concrete action
Al-Amin was arrested in Uganda with human rights lawhas been seen on the ground to fight this growing problem, he told The Friday
yer Mureithi Mbugua while on a mission to give legal
Bulletin.
representation to the renditioned Kenyans. While MureHe said declaring drug abuse as a national disaster will assist in reducing this
ithi was released following an uproar in the legal fraterproblem as more resources will be allocated in the campaign against drug
nity, Al-Amin was charged alongside others for murder
abuse.
and terrorism.
Sheikh Dor who is also an Imam in Mombasa and the secretary general of the
Human rights groups said his detention was an attempt
Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK) warned that if not tackled
to silence his criticism of the US backed counter-terrorwith the seriousness it deserves, drug trafficking will propel the country to an

Hope for renditioned Kenyans

after court frees suspects

This Week

Editorial
Da'wa

Women Issues

Story continued On Page 7

Chief Kadhi-Allow integrity to prevail
HIV, AIDS and Islam
Why some men abuse their wives

P2
P3
P4

Youth and Children

Feature

www.islamkenya.com

Story continued On Page 2

Youth and sex education

P5

PRP gives a new meaning to life

in Prisons
P6

This Newsletter contains some of Allahs names. Please do not throw in the trash. Either keep, circulate or shred

The Friday Bulletin

Dhul Hajj 27 1431/December 03 2010

EDITORIAL

Chief Kadhi: Allow integrity to prevail

The selection process for the new Chief Kadhi is generating into a
tussle pitting interest groups in Coast and North Eastern regions.
For yet to be known reasons, these groups who include politicians
have found themselves on the opposite sides with a firm belief
that one of their own has the right to fill the vacant position left
by Sheikh Hammad Muhammad Kassim who retired in July this
year.
Presently, Sheikh Ahmed Muhdhar is in the position in an acting
capacity and is among those who have been nominated as possible candidates to be the new Chief Kadhi. Others are Sheikh
Sukyan Hassan Omar the Kadhi of Malindi and Sheikh Ahmed
Sugow a teacher at Abu Hureira Academy in Mombasa.
In recent years, the Judicial Service Commission has opened up
and consulted Muslims during the appointment of the Kadhis and
the same procedure is being used in the selection process of the
new Chief Kadhi. This is a far cry from yesteryears where the appointment depended on the whims of the Attorney General and
officials in the Judiciary who made the appointment without consultations with Muslim experts in the field of Islamic law.
Politicians and interest groups jostling to have their preferred candidates in senior positions in government is not something new
in Kenya. Often times influential persons have attempted to wield
their influence to ensure that their cronies and confidants get the
right jobs.
For Muslims who are supposed to be shining examples to others,

indulging in this behavior which is based on tribal and ethnic tendencies goes against the established Islamic standard in selecting leaders. Engaging in this unethical attitude was the last thing
which was expected in the process of selecting the new Chief
Kadhi.
Further, such interference if allowed to prevail, will put the office of
the Chief Kadhi in disrepute and lose its credibility.
The office of the Chief Kadhi is meant to address some important
legal issues facing Muslims and its scope caters for all Muslims in
the country. It is therefore a wrong hypothesis for some communities to assume that it is their inalienable right to have one of their
own in the position or for others to imagine that it is their turn.
For those who are attempting to exert their influence in the selection process, it is high time that they keep off from this matter and
allow the commission to carry out its mandate.
At the same time, the appointing authority, the Judicial Service
Commission should also move without delay and expedite the
selection process and make the appointment of the successful
candidate.
Even though there is an acting Chief Kadhi in place, it is important
for the process to be finalized with the appointment of a Chief
Kadhi in place to facilitate the work of th Kadhis' courts in the
Judiciary which is important and dear to Muslims.
It is such delays which are opening wide gates for vested interests
to interfere in the selection process.

Adopt Islamic ideals, Muslim professionals told

Sumayyah also adviced parents to inculcate Islamic ideals in their
children and provide them with a good education and religious foundation to mould them as the future leaders.
On his part, the director of the school Abdulghani Bashir told Muslims to develop more Muslim integrated schools which give an all
round education covering the formal educational structure and the
Islamic curriculum. We need our own institutions which will provide a balanced education and a brighter future to our children, he
said.
Kinderword Junior School will from the beginning of next year move
to its new home in Midland court South C which was completed
recently at a cost of Sh40 million. This is a new beginning for the institution which had a humble beginning in a three-bedroomed house
nine years ago.

Muslim professionals in their respective capacities have an important obligation to play in presenting Islam positively and furthering
the true message of Islam to people of other faiths. Through their
conduct, the professionals can play a big role in reducing the mistrust towards Islam and Muslims held by many people.
These remarks were made by the acting managing director of the
National Oil Corporation (NOCK) Sumayyah Athman during the
pre-school graduation ceremony at the Kinderworld Junior School
where she was the guest of honour.
She said it was important for the professionals to exhibit their Islamic ideals in their daily activities and be good ambassadors of
Islam at their workplaces. If you are a doctor, you should show
your ideals as a good Muslim and also be good in your profession,
she said.

Ray of hope for detainees

Story From Page 1
ism measures in East Africa.
jurisdiction in the Republic of Kenya, the susThe acquittal now leaves 17 people who
pects argued in court.
include eight Kenyans still facing charges
The release follows persistent claims by Uganof murder and terrorism. The detained Kenda authorities that they had strong evidence
yans are Al-Amin Kimathi, Hussein Haslinking all the detainees to the deadly blast
san Agade, Mohammed Adan Abdow, Idris
which killed more than 70 people watching the
Magondu, Mohammad Hamid Suleiman,
world cup finals.
Yahya Suleiman Mbuthia, Habib Suleiman
The defence lawyer Ladislaus Rwakafuzi has
Njoroge, Omar Awadh Omar.
maintained that his clients were innocent saying
The Nakawa Chief Magistrate Court Deo
that the Ugandan authorities are yet to produce
Ssejjemba committed the rest to face trial
evidence to incriminate them. Three Ugandans
at the High Court. The High Court now is
have admitted involvement in the attack but no
expected to set a date for hearing the case
link has been established with the Kenyans.
Al Amin Kimathi
against the accused, some of whom have

The renditions ignited a storm of protest
been on remand since August when they were charged.

after civil society, Muslim leaders and the JudiciThe nine Kenyans had had earlier petitioned the court to be re- ary heaped criticism on the government for violating the constituleased them saying that their detention was unconstitutional fol- tional rights of citizens.
lowing their arrest which was carried out without following the due The state rights watchdog, the Kenya Human Rights Commission on
process of the law. No extradition proceedings were ever under- its part has announced legal measures against senior police officials
taken against the applicants before any lawful court of competent who were accused of abetting the process.

Dhul Hajj 27 1431/December 03 2010

The Friday Bulletin

DA'WA

Dr. Fiaz Maqbool

HIV, AIDS and Islam

in certain body fluids, such as blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. It is
this virus which causes AIDS.
What is AIDS?
The AIDS acronym stands for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. A person has developed AIDS when they are affected by
certain infections and cancers because their body's defences are
weakened.
Can you tell if a person is HIV positive?
The answer is NO, by looking at someone you cannot tell if that
person is HIV positive. After infection, when HIV gets into your body,
for a period which may last up to ten or fifteen years, an infected
person may feel healthy, and may even not know that they have the
HIV virus.
How does HIV get into our bodies?
HIV can be transmitted in the following ways:
Sexual relations between a man and a woman, or between two
men.
By sharing unsterilised needles, syringes, and other injecting equipment.
By blood transfusion with HIV infected blood or blood products.
Through organ transplants that are infected with HIV.
Through artificial insemination with HIV infected semen.
From an infected mother to her baby (either in the womb, during
labour, or through breastfeeding).
Is blood transfusion safe? Blood transfusion services check all
blood for HIV, so it is usually safe to receive blood.
Can you get HIV through everyday contact from someone who has
the virus? HIV cannot be passed on through everyday contact.
HIV cannot be passed on by touching, shaking hands, kissing, using toilet seats, sharing cups, cutlery, crockery, towels, coughing,
sneezing, insect bites, or swimming pools.
How can you protect yourself from HIV?
We know that HIV is mainly transmitted through sex with an infected person. The most important means of protection is obviously abstinence from sex and to remain faithful to your partner in marriage
and not to have any sex before or outside such a relationship.
Story continued On Page 7

Is HIV a threat to Muslim communities?

Every single country in the world has been affected by HIV, including Muslim countries.
The United Nations Joint Programme on AIDS (UNAIDS) estimates
that since the start of the global HIV pandemic around 29.4 million
people have been infected with HIV. Anyone can become infected
by HIV, including Muslims.
Do Muslims need HIV and AIDS education?
Accurate information about HIV and AIDS will help to control the
spread of the disease in our communities. It will also reduce the
fear and discrimination against people who become HIV positive.
Information will also help us to challenge any myths surrounding
the disease.
HIV spreads mainly through sexual intercourse with an infected
person. The virus is also transmitted through the sharing of needles
by intravenous drug users. Therefore, HIV (the virus that causes
AIDS) can affect anyone who engages in these activities, irrespective of their religion.
Islams view on human life and health
Human life is highly valued in Islam; it is considered a gift from
Allah (s.w.). In the Islamic view, Muslims are not supposed to think
that it is their life with which they can do what they want. Instead,
individuals have been entrusted with life by Allah(s.w.). We are supposed to look after life and not abuse it. A healthy body is a gift
from Allah (s.w.), we are the trustees, and therefore have no right to
misuse and abuse it.
Our Holy Prophet Mohammed, (s.a.w.), has stressed the importance of health at many times. He once said to one of his companion, "O' Abbas ask Allah (s.w.) for health in this world and in the
next." (Al-Nasa`i). And, "No supplication is more pleasing to Allah
(s.w.) than a request for good health." (Tirmidhi). Our bodies are
trusts from Allah (s.w.) that must be returned one day and we will
be asked how we looked after them. Therefore we should avoid any
act which will harm our physical or spiritual health.
Does the concept of modesty in Islam permit us to talk about sex?
Discussing HIV and AIDS would involve discussing sexual and intimate matters. Islam has always encouraged discussions on matters which will help us protect our health and life. Modesty in Islam
does not mean that we should not discuss sexual matters. Muslim
men and women never felt shy to ask the Prophet (s.a.w.) about
intimate sexual matters. The Holy Quran has discussed reproduction, creation, family life, menstruation and ejaculation.
The Prophet (s.a.w.) peace be upon him has said, "Blessed are the
women of the Ansar (citizens of Madinah): shyness did not stand
in their way for seeking knowledge about their religion." (Bukhari
and Muslim). The Qur'an and hadith have repeatedly stressed the
importance of acquiring knowledge: "Are they equal those who do,
and those who do not know?" (Qur'an 39:9). It is through knowledge
that we can achieve closeness to Allah (s.w.), marvel at his creative
work, and appreciate the Divine rules of conduct given in the Holy
Book and practiced by the Holy Prophet and his companions. We
should not feel embarrassed or shy when discussing or reading
about HIV / AIDS.
Islam, however, does require people to be modest and so it is not
so much the discussion of sex and sexual matters that is an issue,
but how this is done. For example, in sex or Aids education, as far
as possible, publications containing explicit graphic illustrations of
the sexual organs should not be used.
What is HIV?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that damages the
body's defence system, stopping it from effectively fighting infections. When HIV enters the body, our defence system starts fighting the virus. Over time, our defence system becomes too weak to
protect itself from many different kinds of infections. The virus lives

Boys Youth Camp

WAMY High School

4th-8th December 2010
Young Muslim High School-Garissa
9th-13th December 2010
Organised by Kenya Muslim Charitable Society Tel: 0729824100

Girls' Holiday Camp

Star Sheikh School Athi River
3rd-11th December 2010
Registration Call 0725828028, 0724207142, 0738 282828
Organised by Madrasatul Ulumuddin al Islamiyyah

Girls' Holiday Seminar

Nairobi Muslim Academy South C
4th-11th December 2010
Registration contact 0719333650, 0737282082
Organised by Darul Rahman Women Group

Saturday Lecture

Islam and Reverts

Sheikh Juma Amir
Sat. 28th November 2010 2.00 pm-4.00 pm
Jamia Multi Purpose Hall
3

Dhul Hajj 27 1431/December 03 2010

The Friday Bulletin

WOMEN ISSUES

Why do some Muslims men abuse their wives

Kamran Memon
There are a number of factors that make many Muslim men abusive.
Abusers are often part of a cycle; picking up the habit after watching their own fathers abuse their mothers. Their own children also
learn this abusive behavior and abuse their wives.
For cultural reasons, some Muslim men accept the idea that it is
normal for a man to hit his wife and that she is no more than a piece
of his property.
Some Muslim husbands abuse their wives as a result of frustration
resulting from economic hardship, problems with the children, or an
inferiority complex.
Some abuse their wives because they want them to be more "modern" and less Islamic by removing their hijab (Islamic dress), while
others are abusive because they want the opposite.
Some Muslims with superficial ties to Islam don't know that abuse
is unacceptable due to their weak faith, poor Islamic knowledge,
and lack of interaction with the Muslim community.
Tragically, some Muslim men actually use Islam to "justify" their
abusive behavior. Focusing on rituals, considering themselves to
be Islamically knowledgeable, and disregarding the spirit of Islam,
they wrongly use the Qur'anic verse that says men are the protectors and maintainers of women to go on power trips, demand
total obedience, and order their wives around. They disregard the
Islamic requirement for the head of the household to consult with
other members of the family when making decisions.
Then, if their wives dare to speak up or question their orders, these
men misinterpret a Qur'anic verse that talks about how to treat a
disobedient wife and use it as a license for abuse.
QURAN AND SUNNAH
In reality, the Qur'an and Sunnah provide clear instructions on what
procedures a husband must use in conflict situations where the husband is innocent and the wife is rebellious and at fault.
1. The first step is a peaceful discussion between the two of them
about the problem and solutions. This is intended to soften hearts
and eliminate misunderstandings.
2. If this doesn't work, the next step is for the husband to tell his
wife his expectations in a firm, decisive manner.
3. If the rebelliousness and disobedience continues, the husband is
supposed to leave the bed, which is really a punishment for both of
them for not being able to resolve their differences.
4. If that fails to solve the problem, representatives of both sides
meet to try and arbitrate.
5. As a last resort, if he thinks it will prevent divorce by letting the
wife know how serious he is, the husband can use a light slap on
the hand or shoulder but not on any other part of the body, and it
shouldn't leave a mark or scar.
Anything beyond this is Islamically prohibited.
This procedure is to be followed only when the wife is the cause
of a serious problem and the husband is innocent, compassionate,
and well-behaved. If the husband is the cause of the problem, he
has no right to do any of this.
Unfortunately, Muslim wives often accept un-Islamic treatment from
their husbands because they do not know their Islamic rights, and
they don't realize their husbands are crossing the Islamic line.
Abusive men are completely disregarding the Islamic teachings of
kindness, mercy, gentleness, and forgiveness, just as they are disregarding the example of Prophet Muhammad, (s.a.w.), who never
hit a woman and was extremely gentle and compassionate with his
family.
WHY IS HELP SO SCARCE?
One problem is that many Muslims do not want to get involved
in the "private" family affairs of other Muslims. Rather than enjoining good and forbidding evil, rather than trying to stop abuse in a
friend's or neighbor's family by offering to mediate between the husband and wife or by encouraging them to speak to Muslim counsel-

lors, many irresponsible Muslims close their eyes and pretend they
do not know there is a problem. So the abuse goes on.
Another reason why abuse is not stopped is that many abused
Muslim women simply do not seek out for help. They are afraid
that if their situation becomes public they will lose their privacy and
they fear the abusers will become more hostile when the negative
publicity gets back to them. Furthermore, many abused Muslim
women remain silent because they lack confidence in themselves
and believe that they somehow deserve the abuse. Abused Muslim
women also keep quiet out of a feeling of hopelessness and a belief that no one will help them, out of financial dependence on their
husbands, out of a desire to keep homes together for the children's
sake, or out of love for the abusive husbands. Other Muslim women
accept the abuse as a fact of life and learn to live with it.
Of those who reach a breaking point and seek help, many Muslim
women turn to Imams but at times find them unhelpful. Imams often tell these women to be patient and pray for the abuse to end.
Some Imams make the abused Muslim women feel guilty, telling
them they have brought the abuse upon themselves and instructing
them to go home and please their husbands.
Relatively few Imams have had the wisdom and courage to tackle
the problem head-on.
Looking for other sources of help, many abused Muslim women
have turned to relatives only to be told to accept the abuse because
making a big deal out of it could hurt the relatives' family honor and
reputation.
As for national Islamic organizations, most have largely ignored the
issue of wife abuse, neglecting to highlight the problem and solutions or to devote resources to helping abused Muslim women.
Because the Muslim community often leaves them to suffer, many
abused Muslim women turn to non-Muslims for help. Seeing abused
Muslim women, non-Muslim social workers develop an ugly picture
of Islam. As far as many of them are concerned, Islam is no more
just and compassionate than Christianity or Judaism because the
Muslim community tolerates wife abuse too.
Many women go even further, leaving Islam altogether because
the Muslim community fails to live up to the Islamic promise of protection, brotherhood and sisterhood.

The Friday Bulletin Kitchen

FISH ROLLS
Ingredients
1 fish fillet
1 Potato, cooked and mashed
2-3 tbsp Cocoa Powder
1/4 cup carrot, grated
1/4 cup courgette, grated
1/4 cup mild cheddar cheese, grated
1/4 cup homebaking flour
Vegetable oil for shallow frying

Method

Poach the fish and break into flakes, checking carefully for bones or
skin.
Mix together with the potato, carrot, courgette and cheese.
Shape into four patties or fingers and dust with flour.
Heat a little oil and cook the patties slowly until golden brown on both
sides
Dust it with flour and keep it aside.
Share your favourite recipes with our readers. Send them to P. O. Box 10078600100 or email:fridaybulletin@islamkenya.com or fridaybulletin@gmail.com

Dhul Hajj 27 1431/December 03 2010

The Friday Bulletin

YOUTH AND CHILDREN

Adultery, fornication and marriage

Adultery
Adultery means to have sex with a person who is not your legally
married partner. There are two types of adultery:1- A married person
who has sexual relations with an unmarried person
2- A married person who has sexual relations with another married
person
Would you like adultery for your mother, wife, sister, or daughter? If
not, then why perpetuate it or condone it? There are several verses
in the Qur'an and many authentic hadith of the Prophet (peace and
blessings be upon him), which give clear guidance on the choices
that we can make.
Say: the things that my Lord hath indeed forbidden are: shameful
deeds, whether open or secret (Al-A`raf 7:33) Nor come nigh to
adultery: for it is a shameful (deed) and an evil, opening the road (to
other evils). (Al-Israa' 17:32)
1- Marriage is a sacred relationship between a husband and wife.
When either spouse has a sexual relationship outside this relationship, this is usually done secretly; thus there is breakdown of trust
in the relationship.
2- The guilty party may contract a sexually transmitted disease,
which can then be transmitted to the innocent victim.
Fornication
Fornication (zina) means to have sex with anyone while not yet
married; there are two types of fornication:
1- An unmarried person who has sexual relations with another unmarried person
2- An unmarried person who has sexual relations with a married
person; in this case, it is fornication for the unmarried person but
adultery for the married person
Those who invoke not, with Allah, any other god, nor slay such life
as God has made sacred, except for just cause, nor commit fornication; and any that does this (not only) meets punishment (but) the
Penalty on the Day of Judgment will be doubled to him, and he will
dwell therein in ignominy. (Al-Furqan 25:68-69)
The Prophet peace be upon him said, "The one who commits illegal sexual intercourse is not a believer at the time of committing
illegal sexual intercourse, and a thief is not a believer at the time
of committing theft, and a drinker of alcohol is not a believer at the
time of drinking. Yet, (the gate of) repentance is open thereafter"
(Al-Bukhari 8, 801).
Furthermore, the punishment is described in the following verse:
The woman and the man guilty of adultery or fornication-flog each
of them with a hundred stripes: let not compassion move you in their
case, in a matter prescribed by Allah, if ye believe in Allah and the
Last Day. (An-Nur 24:2).
Furthermore, if the girl becomes pregnant as a consequence of
this premarital or extramarital act, then the child is not considered
a legal heir according to the following hadith: The Prophet (peace
and blessings be upon him) said, "If a man commits fornication with
a free woman or a slave woman, the child is the product of fornication, and neither does he inherit nor may anyone inherit from him"
(At-Tirmidhi).
Marriage
Let those who find not the wherewithal for marriage keep themselves chaste until Allah gives them means out of His Grace. (AnNur 24:33)
Muslim males and females are enjoined to marry. There are various guidelines pertaining to selecting a suitable partner in life. This
choice cannot be left to chance. if anyone does not have the means
to marry, this dilemma does not entitle anyone to fornicate; rather he
or she is enjoined to remain chaste and to patiently persevere and
seek help from Allah Most High. To guard your chastity is a test from
Allah Most High and requires a lot of discipline and willpower.
Those individuals who succeed in avoiding fornication and adultery,
for them has Allah Most High prepared forgiveness and a great

reward.
Furthermore, according to the following verses, there are clear instructions for those people who commit fornication and then decide
to marry: Let no man guilty of adultery or fornication marry any but
a woman similarly guilty, or an unbeliever: nor let any but such a
man or an unbeliever marry such a woman: to the believers such
a thing is forbidden. (An-Nur 24:3) (Lawful unto you in marriage)
are (not only) chaste women who are believers, but chaste women
among the People of the Book, revealed before your time, when
you give them their due dowers, and desire chastity, not lewdness,
nor secret intrigues. (Al-Ma'idah 5:5)
These verses emphasize the need and pursuit of sexual purity both
before marriage and within marriage, and give guidelines as to the
selection of a partner. Sex counselors and psychologists now confirm the wisdom behind these verses. A person who has multiple
partners is always comparing the spouse's performance to that of
other partners. If an "experienced" boy marries a virgin wife, he may
be unhappy with her inexperience and may expect (and sometimes
demand) more. This can lead to a very fragile relationship, which is
bound to flounder. Unfortunately, some men have a double standard wherein they feel free to have sexual relations with multiple
partners before marriage, but insist that their wife must be a virgin.

To Whom Should We Be Merciful?

Mercy is an excellent characteristic to have and we
should have it and extend it to all creatures. As we
need the Mercy of Allah, we should also be merciful towards each other so that we could attain the Pleasure
and Love of Allah. We should be specially merciful and
careful towards some people such as:

Aged Parents: Just as they were kind and compassionate towards us when we were young, we should be
kind to them when they are old. We should serve them
happily, obey them, talk to them in a polite and decent
manner, and never utter bad words in their presence.
The weak, the needy, the ill, and people with special
needs such as the blind, the dumb and the disabled: We
should help them, fulfill their needs, and never mock at
their disabilities.
Young Children Especially Orphans: We should love and
care for them and be gentle and play with them. The
Prophet, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, said: "He who has
no mercy towards younger ones, and does not acknowledge the honour of our older ones, is not one of us."
[At-Tirmithi]
All Those Who Serve Us: the Prophet, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, used to eat and talk with his servants. He
also used to advise people to take care of them because
they are our brothers. We must feed them from the
same food we eat, make them wear the same clothes we
wear, and never overburden them with things that are
beyond their ability.
All Animals and Birds: because they are the creatures
of Allah and they have senses, feelings, pain, and illnesses. We should feed them, give them water, and never
overburden them. We should not harm or beat them.
5

Dhul Hajj 27 1431/December 03 2010

The Friday Bulletin

FEATURE

Prison Rehabilitation Programme-Giving a new life to inmates

In a an unprecedented move
which redefined the lives
of inmates in Kenyan prisons, former Vice-President
Moody Awori flung wide
open the prison gates unlocking a myriad of opportunities for the inmates. These
reforms saw previously
banned items like books,
newspapers,
educational
materials being allowed in
prisons, television sets were
also introduced and inmates
allowed to meet and directly
interact with their loved ones
on special visiting days.
Perhaps the most important
item in the prison reform programme was the opportunity to allow inmates to further their education ambitions, a move which has seen on average 600 prisoners
sitting for the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) and
Kenya Certificate of Secondary Certificate (KCSE) examinations
while a few others have progressed onwards to university.
As a result of the reforms, prisons have taken a big step to serve
their main purpose as correctional facilities to assist in the re-integration of inmates into their communities after they serve their
terms.
Taking a cue from these reforms, the Prison Rehabilitation Programme (PRP) came into being in 2007 to take care of the welfare
of Muslim inmates with a goal of inculcating Islamic values and reforming them to be good citizens once they leave the prison.
A sister organisation of Ummah Foundation, PRP has in the last
three years played an active role to give a new meaning to life inside the prisons for the Muslim inmates.
Its activities have seen inmates at the Naivasha Maximum security
prison, Kamiti Maximum prison, Shimo La Tewa prison in Mombasa, Kodiaga prison in Kisumu and the Garrisa prison enjoy access
to facilities which could not be comprehended a few years ago.
In a programme to revitalize their spiritual wellbeing, PRP has organized a number of Imams and preachers who pay regular visits
to the prisons to counsel and inculcate Islamic moral teachings to
the inmates. We strive to provide the prisoners with basic teachings of Islam and as well as moral lessons whose ultimate goal is to
mould them into people of good character upon completion of their
term, said Sheikh Athman Abdallah the Imam of Umoja mosque in
Nairobi.
The Programme has gone in its way to set up mosques in Kamiti and
Naivasha prisons which also act as community centres for the Mus-

lim inmates. Apart

from being used
as facilities for
the daily prayers,
the mosques also
serve as educational centres for
the inmates to
further their understanding
of
Islam. The prisoners receive basic
Islamic teachings
focusing on Fiqh
(Islamic jurisprudence, Tawheed
(Oneness of God),
Seerah, (biography of Prophet
Muhammad peace be upon him) and other areas to increase their
understanding of Islam.
This year, inmates in Naivasha prison, for the first time were able
to perform the Taraweeh prayers during the month of Ramadhan
after the completion of the mosque in the facility. The mosque has a
capacity of more than 400 worshippers.
In Shimo La Tewa Prison, inmates under a special programme are
also availed opportunities to undertake a comprehensive Islamic
course which will see them graduating as Imams and preachers.
The Mosques have turned out to be an important element in cementing unity and enhancing brotherhood among the inmates as
well as providing an avenue for them to reflect on their spiritual
wellbeing.
During Ramadhan, the PRP coordinates with prison authorities to
see to it that inmates have their iftar (breaking the fast) and suhoor
(pre-dawn) meals. Foodstuffs which include dates, the popular nutritious fruits consumed in Ramadhan are also distributed to various
prisons in the country.
Unlike yesteryears, Eid has now become a special occasion in the
prisons as PRP organizes special Eid programmes where the prisoners receive gifts and are accorded a special feast where even
non-Muslims are also invited to share in the blessing and joy of the
blessed day.
The face behind the Prisoners Rehabilitation Programme is Musa
Quadir who has devoted his time to bring a new beginning to Muslim inmates. We want to change the life of inmates to ensure that
they are reformed and are able to also contribute positively to society upon their release, the PRP chairman said.
He said they took up the initiative after it became apparent that
there was no systematic programme to address the needs of Muslim inmates.
He added that with more support from the
community, the activities will be extended to
cover all the 54 prisons in the country. We
appeal to Muslims to come and lend their
support to this noble venture which has been
beneficial to Muslim inmates, he said.
He paid gratitude to the Kenyan Prison Service which has greatly facilitated the PRP activities in various prisons in the country.

TOP: The mosque at Naivasha Maximum prison which was built by the
Prison Rehabilitation Programme
Left: Musa Wekesa (right), Musa Quadir
(Second left) hands overdates to an official from the prison

Dhul Hajj 27 1431/December 03 2010

The Friday Bulletin

YMA Udhhiya programme benefits 10,000 families

More than 10,000 families in various parts of the country were beneficiaries of a Qurbani (Udhhiya) programme undertaken by the
Young Muslim Association (YMA).
The programme mainly targeted needy families in Nairobi, North
Eastern, Coast, Western, Central and Nyanza regions which were
supplied with meat during the Eid ul Adha festivities.
In all, 2,710 goats and sheep, 55 cows and 5 camels were slaughtered and meat distributed to the deserving cases.
Various organisations which include IGMG Hilfs-und Soziaverin
of Germany, Helping Hands for Relief and Development of United
States, ICNA Relief of Canada, World Assembly of Muslim YouthRiyadh and Muslim Association Mombasa partnered with Young

Muslim Association in the initiative.

The distribution exercise under the programme Food for the Hungry was carried out between the 10th and 12th of Dhul-Hijja (the
twelve month of the Islamic calendar)- a period of festivities which
mark the end of the annual pilgrimage to the Holy land of Makkah,
Saudi Arabia.
According to the YMA secretary general Abdulhamid Slatch, the
Udhhiyya programme is undertaken on behalf of those who due to
some reasons are unable to perform the sacrifice.
The programme also economically supports poor Muslim stock
traders through purchasing their animals.

Take action against the drug lords, Muslim leaders tell government
Story From Page 3
orgy of drug related violence and anarchism as is the case in countries like Brazil, Mexico and Colombia.
The National Muslim Leaders Forum (NAMLEF) took issue with the
government for not taking adequate measures to stem the spread
of drug abuse in the country.
NAMLEF chairman Abdullahi Abdi said Kenyans were looking forward to concerted action against individuals who are involved in
spreading this vice and added that mere rhetoric alone would not be
able to satisfy Kenyans that the government was serious in combating the drug trade. We do not need to address superfluous issues
but what Kenyans are expecting is to tackle the root cause of this
problem which is going after the powerful people dealing in drugs,
he said.
Abdullahi said Kenya has gained a negative reputation as a destination and transit point for drugs and urged the government to take
stronger measures against this trade as it was harming the image
of the country.
Sheikh Ahmad Msallam, a prominent Nairobi Muslim scholar spoke
on the ineptitude on the part of the government as one of main reaStory From Page 3

sons which has forestalled the war on drugs. The scholar said the
authorities were keen on protecting drug barons due to their wealth
and political influence and ignored the plight of the thousands of
youths whose lives continue to be destroyed by drugs. These
people are known but because of political interests have remained
untouched despite their dangerous criminal behaviors, he said.
He called on the government to put aside vested interests and political expediency and take strong action against the drug criminals
irrespective of their public status.
Sheikh Msallam also challenged the government to name those
accused of abetting this trade adding that the continued silence
was sending out a message to Kenyans that it was sleeping on its
job to address the problem of drug abuse.
Meanwhile the Police Commissioner Mathew Iteere pledged to
make a disclosure of prominent people involved in the drug trade
in two weeks. His statement came after President Mwai Kibaki directed the police to take strong measures against those implicated
in the vice.

HIV, AIDS and Islam

However, one does not always know the full medical or history of
sexual activity of one's partner in marriage and this is why it is important for all individuals to also go for HIV tests before marriage.
Pregnant women should have an HIV test, and if they are HIV positive, seek medical advice on ways of reducing the risk of infection
between mother and child.
How should Muslims behave towards people who are living
with HIV or AIDS?
There are many Muslims who are affected by AIDS. These people
are someones son or daughter, brother or sister: they are part of
the Muslim community. We cannot shun people living with HIV or
AIDS. Any person with AIDS should be given attention, care, love
and affection, so the person can lead his/her life with dignity. We
also have no right to judge or condemn people. It is up to the Almighty to forgive or punish. AIDS and HIV is all around us, inside
our mosques and in many of our homes. Besides, this, not all those
who are infected with HIV acquired from promiscuous sexual activity. Many have acquired the disease through blood transfusions,
infections from their marriage partners and other areas.
The Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him said: "Have compassion towards those who are on earth and the One who is beyond will
have compassion towards you."
Islam is a religion that is full of compassion, love and mercy. The
Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) reminded Muslims that: "You will not
enter into paradise until you believe, and you will not believe until
you love one another." In another Hadith, it has been said, "Allah
shows compassion only to those of his servants who are compassionate."
Love and compassion are the qualities of a good Muslim, and peo-

ple with AIDS cannot be denied these powerful emotions. Visiting

and caring for the sick is another good deed that is highly recommended by the Prophet (s.a.w.). "Whoever visits a sick person is
walking along the high road to Jannah." (Bukhari) "A visit to a sick
person is only complete when you have put your hand on his forehead and asked him how he is." (Tirmidhi).
People with AIDS need our compassion, our love, and our affection,
so do not be afraid to embrace them or touch them. The Prophet
also said, "If you enter the house of a sick person, then only speak
good words, for truly the angels will confirm what you say, and they
will open up the way of heaven to him," (Nasa'i). There are many
more sayings from the messenger of Allah about showing love and
compassion to people in ill health. Therefore, we must remember
what is expected from us by Allah.
HIV, AIDS and Islam
Islam is a religion that is very close to human nature. It appreciates
the powerful sexual desires that humans have. Therefore it encourages that these desires be fulfilled, and advocates and encourages
marriage, so that through marriage sexual desires can be fulfilled.
Islam provides us with a moral code for sexual enjoyment. Islam
also prohibits the use of substances which may impair the senses.
Therefore the use of narcotics such as drugs and alcohol is strictly
prohibited.
Some Muslims may think that HIV and AIDS are not issues for the
community. The reality is that HIV and AIDS are major issues in
many Muslim countries. It is therefore becoming extremely important that we accept that we are equally vulnerable to HIV and AIDS.
Given the increase in HIV infection globally, it is more important than
ever that we discuss HIV and AIDS openly. (Positivemuslims.com)

Israel accused over 'cruel' Gaza blockade

Gaza's 1.5 million people are still suffering

from a shortage of construction materials,
a ban on exports and severe restrictions on
movement six months after Israel agreed to
ease its blockade on the territory, a report
from 21 international organisations said.
The loosening of the embargo has done
little to improve the plight of Gaza's civilians, according to the coalition, which includes Amnesty, Oxfam, Save the Children,
Christian Aid and Medical Aid for Palestinians. It calls for fresh international action to
persuade Israel to unconditionally lift the
blockade.
Israel agreed to ease its restrictions on
goods and materials allowed into Gaza following its attack on a flotilla of aid boats in
May, in which nine Turkish activists were
killed. Since then the import of food and
many other consumer items has resumed,
although there is still a ban on exports and
severe restrictions on construction materials.
According to the report, Dashed Hopes:
Continuation of the Gaza Blockade, imports of construction materials are 11%
of the 2007 pre-blockade levels. Despite
having agreed to allow in materials for the
United Nations Relief and Works Agency to
rebuild its schools and clinics damaged or
destroyed in the three-week war in 200809, Israel has permitted only 7% of the necessary amount.
Many of the thousands of homes and businesses hit during the war are still unrepaired almost two years later because of
the shortage of building materials.
Exports remain banned with the exception

of strawberries and carnations for European markets. Israel now allows clothing factories to import fabric, but blocks
the export of finished items.
But some businesses are still unable to
import raw materials they need. According to the report, two-thirds of Gaza's
businesses have closed since the
blockade was tightened in June 2007,
and the rest are operating at restricted
capacity.
There has been no change on the "buffer zone" around Gaza's perimeters,
which swallows 35% of Gaza's arable
land and 85% of maritime fishing waters
"with devastating impact on the economy and people's rights and livelihoods
Boundaries of the restricted areas
are highly arbitrary and enforced by live
fire," says the report. Since the blockade was eased six months ago, six civilians have been killed and 50 injured by
Israeli fire in the buffer zone.
"The so-called 'easing' of the Gaza
blockade does not change the fact that
there's still a cruel and illegal blockade
collectively punishing the entire civilian
population," said Amnesty director Kate
Allen. "The only real easing has been
the easing of pressure on the Israeli
authorities to end this cruel and illegal
practice." Jeremy Hobbs, director of
Oxfam, said: "Israel's failure to live up
to its commitments and the lack of international action to lift the blockade are
depriving Palestinians in Gaza of access to clean water, electricity, jobs and
a peaceful future."

CHOPSTIX

Authentic Chinese Halal Restuarant

The first HALAL Certified Chinese

Restaurant in Kenya

Working Hours Monday to Saturday

Sundays and Public holidays

10.00 am-3.00pm 6.00p-10.00pm

10.00 am-4.00pm 6.00p-10.00pm

Hurlingham Shopping Centre Argwings Kodhek Road

APA Insurance Arcade Ground Floor near Kenol Petrol Station
P. O. Box 49739 00100 Nairobi Telephones: 2714801 2710209 4181414

Changing the lives of

inmates

Naivasha Maximum prison has a population of

3,445 inmates out of which over 400 are Muslims. Most of the prisoners, about 80% here are
the hard core criminals who came to these dungeons due to severe crimes like murder, manslaughter, rape and robbery with violence.
Ummah Foundation with its Prisoners Rehabilitation Program has been very active in making
sure the prisoners are well catered for spiritually.
A mosque that serves as an Educational hub
was constructed inside the prison through funding from the Foundations. Educational materials
like books, Qurans, Television set, Islamic video
tapes and video player were handed over to the
Prison authorities as a donation from Ummah
Foundation. During the presentation, the Officer
in-charge Mr. Patrick Mwenda thanked Ummah
Foundation and appreciated the support given.
Present during the presentation of the named
items and official opening of the mosque were:
Nominated Member of Parliament Sheikh Muhammad Dor who graced the occasion as the
guest speaker, Abdullatif Essajee Chairman of
Ummah Foundation, the Foundations Secretary
General ; Zool Nimji who is the initiator of the
noble projects, Jamia Mosque Committee Chairman Sheikh Osman Warfa, Secretary General
of Jamia Mosque Abdul Bary Hamid, Hassan
Mamdani a trustee Jamia Mosque , Musa Quadir Trustee member of Ummah Foundation and
Saleh Timami committee member of Parklands
Mosque among others.
The picture we get about the prison is that it
houses habitual criminals, but looking at the reality of in Naivasha Prison, the inmates have every
chance to change.
It is amazing how the Mosque now doubles as
prayer hall for the five daily prayers and a rehabilitation centre where the prisoners have been
given a golden opportunity to be acquainted with
Islam.
Ummah Foundation main object is to provide the
spiritual and moral guidelines to the inmates so
that once they come out, they will be proper citizens. We therefore call upon fellow brothers and
sisters to join hands with Ummah Foundation
and make us realise the dreams in the 54 prisons
all over the country. The prison department has
an education program that is totally dependant
on well wishers. Ummah Foundation has gone
a step ahead and provided the school program
with desks, blackboards and exercise books.
All our efforts have been made successful due
to the wise leadership of Mr. Patrick Mwenda,
the officer In charge of the Naivasha Maximum
prison and his dedication to see change in this
particular Institution of reform.
Support us in this programme and Contact us:
Ummah Foundation Village Plaza, Ngara Road
P.O. Box 58717-00200, Nairobi
Tel: 0717 613 333/ 0732 613 333
Email:ummahfoundation.net

The Friday Bulletin is a Publication of Jamia Masjid Committee, P. O. Box 100786-00101 Nairobi, Tel: 2243504/5 Fax: 342147 E-mail: fridaybulletin@gmail.com.
Printed by Colour Magic Production Ltd-Kirinyaga Crescent P. O. Box 9581-00100 Nairobi