Hon. Imran Maharoof

Thank you, Hon. Presiding Member. Although today’s agenda includes transport, I wish to address the Waqf Board. The Waqf Board is a civil body that administers mosques and related properties for the Muslim community. Questioning its independence is a democratic right. Please do not deflect legitimate concerns by labelling them “racist” or stirring communal tensions. We expect reasoned answers, not emotional diversions, from a Government that came to power promising change. At a media briefing last Monday, I raised specific concerns. The current list of proposed Waqf Board members reportedly includes a retired military officer, a known government supporter, and a person who repeatedly contests elections under the ruling party’s banner. When questioned, some try to communalize and deflect, invoking past cases like Dr. Shafi’s, though it was members of your own side who first spoke in his defence in this House. Stop politicizing and answer the substantive questions. If there are shortcomings in the proposed nominees, acknowledge and correct them by appointing suitable, independent persons. Do not allow figures who stir racism—like Gnanasara Thero—to intrude into this matter. People across the country now ask whether the Government intends to politicize mosque administration by packing governing bodies with its supporters ahead of future elections. Handle the Waqf Board as a religious and community matter, independently and properly. Thank you.