Australia’s Muslim Leader’s Health Takes a Turn for the Worse
No doubt Sheik al-Hilali will push to re-establish himself as the rightful leader; just call him, Ishmael…
Aussie Muslim leader’s health deteriorates
By Natasha Robinson
October 24, 2007 – News.com.au
THE health of Australia’s Muslim leader Fehmi Naji el-Imam has worsened, with the ailing 79-year-old taken to hospital, forcing him to pull out at the last minute from a rare public appearance to open a national Islamic studies centre.
When he was elected to replace the controversial former Mufti of Australia, Sheik Taj al-din al-Hilaly, Sheik Fehmi’s supporters insisted his fragile health would be no barrier to his ability to carry out the demanding role.
Yesterday, he did not show up at the launch of the National Centre of Excellence in Islamic Studies at Melbourne University. Organisers received a late message that he had been taken to hospital.
Fellow imam and close friend Riad Galil, from the West Heidelberg mosque in Melbourne, said Sheik Fehmi’s health had deteriorated in recent weeks.
“He is feeling weak and fragile,” said Sheik Galil, who saw Sheik Fehmi about 10 days ago. “He is still putting up a brave face.”
Sheik Fehmi had two strokes more than a year ago and recovered well, but not fully. His public profile since taking over from Sheik Hilaly mid-year has been low.
He had been due to give a speech yesterday at the opening of the Islamic studies centre, which will be operated by the University of Melbourne, Queensland’s Griffith University and the University of Western Sydney.
The Howard Government allocated $8 million to the centre, which will offer a major in Islamic studies in a Bachelor of Arts degree to students at the three consortium universities, as well as promoting post-graduate Islamic studies.
Sheik Fehmi was instrumental in the centre’s inception.
23 October, 2007 at 6:22 pm
Now we know why Hilali picked this guy. Poor Australia-as if they don’t have enough headaches from the Destroyers.
24 October, 2007 at 8:16 am
ISLAMSFORLOSERS
I think you are right about that. And also Sheik Fehmi is generally well-liked and not outspoken like Hilali. He is a much quieter man, and more involved with interfaith groups. He is not one who has made waves.