The peak representative body for imams in Australia has expressed deep concern over allegations that a Melbourne-based Islamic preacher urged his congregation to “take up arms against his enemies.” The Australian National Imams’ Council (ANIC) issued a formal statement on Tuesday following revelations by Nine Newspapers regarding the remarks.
The comments, attributed to the preacher known as Abu Ahmad, were reportedly made during a sermon in July. According to the report, he also instructed followers not to take “Jews and the Christians for friends.” In response, the ANIC distanced itself from the rhetoric, emphasizing its opposition to such inflammatory language.
Independent Member of Parliament Allegra Spender stated that the incident underscores the critical need for enhanced legal protections against hate speech. Her remarks highlight growing political and community pressure to address extremist rhetoric within religious settings and safeguard social cohesion.
Hate speech laws are tricky. I wonder if Spender’s proposal will actually survive legal challenges.
Wait, hasn’t this preacher been under surveillance before? Why did it take a newspaper report for officials to respond?
Good to see the ANIC clearly distancing themselves from this extremist rhetoric. Community leadership matters.