A PRESS STATEMENT

 

The Jamiatul Ulama South Africa (JUSA) expresses grave concern over the increasing reports of child sexual abuse and molestation within our communities. The safety, dignity, and well-being of every child are paramount. As a faith-based organisation rooted in Islamic ethos and engaged in community service, we unequivocally condemn all forms of abuse and affirm our commitment to protecting all children, as the most vulnerable among us.

 

Islam places emphasis on the protection of the vulnerable, in general. There is special and even greater emphasis on the protection of young children. Accountability is severe against any perpetrators of harm to children. In the interest of the promotion of the values of our faith, and in accordance with the laws of the land, it is both an individual’s as well as a communal and moral duty to ensure that children remain safe and protected.

 

Every child under our care and supervision, whether as a parent, guardian, teacher or trainer, is an amānah [trust]. About trusts, Rasulullah r said in a tradition recorded in the Sunan At-Tirmidhī:

 

“Fulfil the trust of those to whom they are due, and do not be treacherous to the one who betrays you.”

More specifically, mercy towards children is mentioned as one of the criteria for one to belong to the Community of Believers where Allah’s Messenger r disavows, again as recorded in Sunan At-Tirmidhī:

 

“He is not one of us who is neither merciful to our young, nor respects the rights of our elders, nor enjoins good and forbids evil.”

 

JUSA appeals to all individuals, parents, guardians, and all those in whose care children are placed, to remain committed to the upholding of safety and protection of the young ones. It is the responsibility of each one of us not to ignore abuse but take necessary measures to guard and protect the integrity and innocence of children, whether at home or in community facilities such as schools, parks, halls, madāris as well as masājid, which should remain safe spaces.

 

Released by:

 

The Executive Committee
Jamiatul Ulama South Africa

12 Safar 1447/07 August 2025