Al Jama-ah remembers the 54th Commemoration of martyr Imam Abdullah Haron or “Mfundisi” (spirtitual leader) as he was fondly known in South Africa’s townships during the hey days of apartheid.
Imam Haron was 45 years-old when he died on 27 September 1969 after he was brutally tortured to death whilst in detention at Caledon Square and Maitland police stations respectively.
He was arrested on 28 May 1969 on the same day as Muslims were preparing to commemorate the birth of Prophet Muhammed (Peace and Blessing Upon Him) and was held incommunicado for 123 days after which he succumbed to the injuries received from brutal torture by members of the Security Branch.
Al Jama-ah remembers him as a robust and resilient Imam who connected well with the youth and oppressed masses in the townships. He fulfilled the role of true leadership providing the Islamic consciousness and political awareness to challenge the oppressive system.
We commend the Qibla Movement who for many years throughout challenging times consistently commemorated the martyrdom of Imam Haron and members of the Muslim Student Association (MSAs) on various campuses who strive to uphold the legacy of the Imam. Al Jama-ah calls on organisations to show their support for justice when judgement into the killing of the Imam will be handed down on 9 October 2023.
“We further call for justice to prevail for the several other families whose loved ones were killed by Security Branch members of the then apartheid government.
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