‘Gay pigs’ cleric probed

Homophobic columnist taken to task

A DEROGATORY column by a Muslim cleric that equated homosexuals to pigs and mules is being investigated by the South African Human Rights Commission.

Moulana Khalid Dhorat, a columnist for Muslim Watch, a newsletter distributed in Gauteng and parts of Durban, penned an article last month in which he blamed gay men for the spread of the HIV virus and labelled homosexuality an “addictive vice” like “drugs, wine and pornography”.

Dhorat said the introduction of unisex clothing and loud colours in the fashion world were also responsible for the increase in homosexual behaviour.

He added that homosexuals would choose “filth over fish” and “drain water over fresh orange juice”.

“They are like pigs that enter into a beautiful rose garden. Instead of smelling the fragrant roses and munching on the sweet petals, they will look for the manure in the sand and eat that instead.”

Dhorat did not respond to repeated attempts for comment.

The commission’s Isaac Mangena said its Gauteng branch would be investigating the discriminatory views in the column.

“It is very worrying that, despite the progressive laws prohibiting violence or any form of discrimination against persons based on their sexual orientation, we still have incidents where gays and lesbians are called names by their communities and discriminated against,” said Mangena.

“The commission will ... ensure that people are reminded about their rights and those of others, including gays and lesbians.”

Cape Town imam Muhsin Hendricks, founder of antihomophobia group The Inner Circle, said Dhorat’s view incited hatred towards a small group of people.

The organisation deals with cases of homophobia in the Muslim community.

Hendricks created it after coming out to his family.

“This problem is not confined to the Islamic faith, nor is it confined to Muslim homosexuals.

“It is a problem that cuts across religions, communities and states horizontally and vertically.”

Hendricks said Dhorat’s statement that HIV was Allah’s punishment to homosexuals was a “complete dereliction of social and religious responsibility”.

“Dhorat’s arguments are out of keeping with a range of Koranic injunctions which call upon us to produce proof when we make a statement.

“This clearly indicates that he has not done his homework.”