The Federation of Student Islamic Societies (FOSIS) in the UK and Eire today strongly condemned the repeated attempts to discredit the character of Mohamed Ali Harrath, CEO of Islam Channel.

Qasim Rafiq, spokesman for FOSIS, said today, "It is clear that attempts to malign Mohamed Ali Harrath are based on meaningless allegations made by a Tunisian dictatorship whose claims, the UK security services have told Mr Harrath, are wholly unsubstantiated. Mohamed Ali is a well known and respected member of the Muslim community in Britain. He is not only credited with initiatives that seek to build bridges with other communities through Islam Channel broadcasts, but according to Detective Chief Superintendent Alan Mitchell has been able to help police "devise strategies to challenge the narratives of violent extremism." It should also be borne in mind that Tunisia's misuse of Interpol's Red Notice system led the British authorities to refuse a request to extradite Mohamed Ali Harrath in 1997 following a thorough examination of his circumstances and in full knowledge of the Interpol Red Notice. Instead, he was granted political protection under the 1951 Geneva Convention, as were many of those convicted by the Tunisian courts."

He further added, "In light of Mohamed Ali's dedicated service to all communities in Britain it leaves us greatly disappointed that those wishing to accuse him would do so seeking to discredit such works which aim to bring peace and unity to all communities in Britain."

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Notes:

1. FOSIS (est. 1962) is the umbrella organisation of student groups in colleges and universities throughout the UK and Ireland, representing over 90,000 Muslim students.
2. For more information please contact FOSIS media on 07786636691, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or alternatively visit our website www.fosis.org.uk