DAP Says Zahid Must Issue Statement On Zakir Naik

(FMT) – DAP’s M Kulasegaran has asked Home Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to make a ministerial statement on fugitive Islamic preacher Zakir Naik when the Dewan Rakyat convenes on Monday.

The Ipoh Barat MP said this is in view of new developments that have taken place after India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) submitted a detailed investigation report on the alleged terror activities of Naik to India’s Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in New Delhi.

The Times of India (TOI) had reported that the agency has sought prosecution sanction from the ministry against Naik, who fled India and who has been given permanent resident status by Malaysia, and citizenship by Saudi Arabia.

It said this was a step towards seeking his extradition from Malaysia and Saudi Arabia where he has been known to be residing.

“In the last Dewan Rakyat sitting I had asked if Zakir Naik is a Malaysian citizen or if he will be deported.

“And now in view of the developments that have taken place and the cordial relationship with India, the present home minister must be bold enough to make a ministerial statement,” Kula told FMT.

He said it would not be acceptable if Zahid, who is also deputy prime minister, ignores this call as he has a duty to explain to Malaysians on his stand.

Naik was last seen on Sept 29 participating in Friday prayers at the Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin Mosque in Putrajaya. Photographs of him among the congregation were uploaded on Facebook and spread via social media.

Citing sources, the Indian daily said MHA was informed that the investigation was complete with strong evidence to support allegations that Naik had a role in radicalising Muslim youths to join “jihad” (religious battle).

It said there was also proof gathered on his alleged spreading of enmity between religious groups, disturbing communal harmony and attempting forced conversions through his NGO called the Islamic Research Foundation (IRF).

Times of India also reported that NIA will be filing its charge-sheet against Naik, his associates and IRF, as soon as MHA gives prosecution sanction.

“This would then be used to send a formal extradition request to Malaysia and Saudi Arabia, where he is said to be living and travelling frequently,” the report said.