Annual message on the start of Ramadhan 2009

Mr. Mohammed Shafiq, Chief Executive, comments:

"As the holy month of Ramadhan approaches on behalf of the Ramadhan Foundation I wish everyone a very happy and peaceful Ramadhan. To be blessed with the opportunity to fast and reflect over the past tweleve months is a great honour and I urge Muslims to use every opportunities to benefit from this holy month.

Ramadhan is a time to pray, celebrate and thank God for his blessings and we at the Ramadhan Foundation urges Muslims to remember those less fortunate than us throughout this month.

Ramadhan is a time to give and we urge Muslims to give to all the worthy causes around the globe, you can do this through our official international relief partner “Interpal” (www.interpal.org)

Muslims bring great benefits to the United Kingdom and the UK is richer as a result."

Public apology to Prince Harry from Mohammed Shafiq

“On Saturday as the news of the racist language used by Prince Harry broke, I allowed my emotions to get the better of me and I labeled him a thug. On reflection I wish to issue a sincere and unreserved apology to Prince Harry for any offence I have caused him.

I recognise that when we make mistakes we should be honourable and decent to accept them and I hope that this apology is accepted in that way, I never intended to offend Prince Harry in this way.

I am however still of the view that the use of the term ‘Paki’ is unacceptable in the 21st Century and I welcome Prince Harry’s acceptance that this word is racist and offensive.

I know he is a very talented individual and has a bright future ahead of him and hope we all learn lessons from this sorry episode.”

No justification for Prince Harry’ racist attack, urged to commit to anti racism

“I am deeply shocked and saddened at Prince Harry’s racism which upsets and offends many British Asians. The use of this sort of racism has no justification and I am saddened by those that are advocating using this term is not racist.

Prince Harry as a public figure must ensure that he promotes equality and tolerance and this rant whether today or three years ago is sickening and he should be thoroughly ashamed of himself.

Whilst accepting his apology he needs to show his commitment to anti racism by visiting the British Asian community and show his remorse, his parents have a distinguished record of tolerance and respect for the UK’s diversity and we hope he learns to understand and accept that terms he used are unacceptable in any circumstances.
It’s time for real remorse.”