MUSLIM EVENT WITH TALIBAN LINK AXED

AUSTRALIA’S peak Muslim body has cancelled a virtual event that was criticised for inviting Taliban leaders to speak.

The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan and Diaspora Muslims event, organised by the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils for Saturday night, advertised a “stellar panel of speakers” – including two known Taliban members – to talk about developments in Afghanistan “whether (attendees are) in favour or against recent developments”.

Following wide media coverage and public backlash, the AFIC president said the event had been cancelled.

“This event was not convened to legitimise any group or to offend any group,” Dr Rateb Jneid said. “Discussions have taken place with officials in Australia during the fermentation of the idea with a view to possibly having officials involved in posing our questions. This event was advertised … and it generated both support and criticism.

“In view of the developments, I have taken the executive decision to cancel the event.”

Among the panel members were Sheik Sohail Shaheen, who has been official spokesman for the Taliban, and senior Taliban figure Sheik Sayed Abdul Basir Sabiri.