By Loushe Jordaan Gilbert
The Muslim Judicial Council (MJC), in its capacity as a member of the SAHUC National General Council (NGC), has issued a formal communication addressing growing concerns over proposed changes to the SAHUC constitution.
While the MJC has commended SAHUC and previously accredited Hajj operators for their decades of dedicated service to South African hujjaaj, highlighting their constant professionalism. It has highlighted its deep concern over the proposed constitutional amendment that would see SAHUC transition from its current role as a regulatory body to becoming the sole Hajj operator in South Africa.
While affirming SAHUC’s right to amend its constitution, the MJC warned that this shift represents a fundamental and unprecedented change in SAHUC’s mandate. Noting that the proposal has far-reaching implications for both the organisation and the wider Muslim community, stating that it has ‘sparked fitna’ and ‘division’ across the community.
The MJC further raised concern on the escalation of the issue to involve legal disputes, political parties, and government bodies, arguing that these actions obfuscate the core mission of serving hujjaaj with sincerity and unity.
The ulama body, citing the fiduciary duty of NGC members to uphold the trust of the community and act in the best interest of hujaaj, has called for open dialogue and reconsideration of actions that could destabilise existing systems of cooperation in the Hajj industry.
This intervention comes amid a turbulent period for SAHUC, marked by nationwide pickets, stakeholder backlash, and growing questions on the organisation’s operations.
The MJC’s stance adds to the cacophony of voices urging SAHUC to prioritise inclusivity, transparency, and collaboration in any changes that affect the future of South African pilgrims.
This is a developing story. Further updates to follow.
VOC News
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