PM to meet Muslims after Haiti trip

JENSEN LA VENDE

Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley says he will meet with the Muslim community when he returns from Haiti later this week, in an attempt to appease those who feel they have been targeted.

In the days leading up to Carnival, police announced that there was a threat to disrupt the festivities as a plot was unearthed with the assistance of international allies.

Following the announcement a total of 15 people were arrested, most of them Muslims, 13 were released without charge and two were charged with possession of gun component. National security agencies have stayed away from labelling the plot a terror threat calling it an act of violence.

Members of the Muslim community however have lashed out saying that the arrests of their brothers and sisters and the search of their masjids were apparent attacks on their faith.

Speaking at a press conference at the Balisier House yesterday, chairman of the People’s National Movement Franklin Khan said Rowley gave the commitment to the general council that he will meet with them immediately after his return on Friday.

Contacted yesterday, several Muslim clerics said they welcomed the idea but wanted a wide cross section of Muslim bodies as there between 40 to 50 Muslim organisations in the country. Muslims said Islamaphobia had reached the country and they hope that the meeting with the PM will undo some of the damage done.

Inshan Ishmael, founder of the Islamic Broadcasting Network, said he will be organising an anti-terrorism rally. The proposed rally is expected to take place next month in Chaguanas he said and is opened to all organisations. The aim is to stand in solidarity against terrorism. Ishmael added that anyone who knows of someone wanting to leave the country to go Syria to join terror groups should be reported.