Meeting commenced at 10.45am with the recitation of verses of Holy Quran by Br Razahusein Rahim, followed by introductions.
President welcomed everyone to and extended congratulations to Br Kamruddin Khaki on being elected as the President of London Hujjat Jamaat. President thanked Br Amir Merali (Executive Councillor of Africa Federation) for accepting invitation to attend the meeting.
Welcome speech and housekeeping rules by President of London Jamaat, Br Kamruddin Khaki.
On behalf of Stanmore Jaffery, Br Kamruddin Khaki presented a plaque to CoEJ for yet another excellently organised MAM Tournament.
Secretary General said he hoped he would be assisted by everyone to ensure that the meeting was conducted in a timely manner.
1. Minutes of last Meeting and matters arising therefrom
Minutes approved subject to the following two amendments:
Page 2: (c) Remove the sentence ‘The revised document was in the pack.’
Page 2: (c) Remove the words ‘and ratified by the Executive Council’
Proposed by Br Mahmood Rehemtulla and Seconded by: Br Shabbir Merali
Matters arising
(a) Dr Helmi – (Page 1): Br Razahusein Rahim said he had met Dr Ali Helmi who had assured him that he had done what he could and the matter was now with the Iranian Ambassador.
(b) Switzerland shortfall – (Action Point 1, Page 2): – Br Husseinali Rehemtulla advised that the actual shortfall was £550; and added they had been trying to find local donors. After discussion Dr Husein Jiwa proposed and all the Councillors approved that CoEJ could undertake to find donors for £400 per month and the situation would be reviewed in 6 months’ time. Donations were pledged by various donors. Dr Husein Jiwa added that after 6 months the situation would be revisited.
(c) Alim Hadiya: Secretary General commented that some Jamaats had not provided the information.
(d) President’s Report: Dr Husein Jiwa recommended formation of a Matrimonial Reconciliation Team and suggested the team to comprise of Syed Mohamed Naqvi, Br Mustafa Jaffer, Mulla Mohamed Kassamali and added that Syed Mohamed Naqvi be given mandate to come up with a TOR to start processes. He confirmed that these people had agreed to be part of the team and that Br Sajjad Manji would be the Admin contact. At Br Murtaza Bharwani’s request (who had not been present at the last meeting), Dr Husein Jiwa explained what had transpired during the meeting with Maulana Zafar Abbas and added that the team would have links in Jamaats and compile a report (when necessary) as requested by Maulana Zafar Abbas to review. After discussion the EC concurred that the team should include a lady (Alima).
(e) Hilal Update on System and Processes (Action Point 2, Page 4): Br Kamruddin Khaki requested Br Makbul Jaffer to explain the issue of Hilal Statement on Hujjat website. Br Makbul Jaffer gave an explanation on sometimes differing views and added that members of TAIA now worked with and were part of HAT. Dr Husein Jiwa added that the statement on Hujjat website be the same as the HAT statement.
(f) Hon Treasurer’s Report (b): Treasurer advised that the CoEJ Office lease had been extended as discussed at the last EC meeting and the rent increased to £1000 commencing July 2011.
(g) Subcommittee Reports, Khawateen: Sis Sukaina Manji thanked Secretary General for reading out the Khawateen report on her behalf.
2. CoEJ Conference date and Venue
Secretary General requested consensus for Saturday 15 October 2011 to be the date of Conference. Secretary General added that Wessex had offered their new centre as a venue; however it was unlikely to be ready and available by the 15 October as advised by their builders. The date was agreed for the Conference and the venue, as proposed by Br Mahmood Al-Najar, confirmed as Zainabiya Centre, Milton Keynes
3. CoEJ Plans ‘Striving for a brighter future
Secretary General gave a preamble on the discussion paper on ‘Striving for a Brighter future’ included in the pack. Councillors were all in agreement that this was an excellent initiative and gave their input. After discussion Secretary General requested Dr Sarfraz Jeraj, who agreed to lead a working group. Dr Akber Mohamedali, Br Mahmood Rehemtulla and Br Shabbir Merali expressed an interest to be part of the "Striving for a Brighter Future" planning work group. It was agreed that the process outline would be initially prepared as well as an away day be facilitated with a view to having the Strategic Plan finalised by early part of 2012.
4. WF Conference May 2011
Secretary General gave an overview of the WF Conference:
(a) The WF elections had concluded smoothly.
(b) The Madressa Centre of Excellence initiative had been approved and each region had made a commitment to help raise $50,000 every year for two years. The detailed plans would be discussed at the next WF ExCO and CoEJ would be keen to comment on the operational plans ensuring that checks and balances were in place to avoid a similar situation as the IIPS situation.
(c) The Budgets for the 3 years were approved at the Conference.
(d) Secretary General advised the IIPS paper had been presented at the WF Conference last May in Dar es Salaam. However due to time constraints it had not been discussed. It was an item of Agenda at the WF ExCO due to take place at KSIMC of London Hujjat on 24-25 September 2011 (Notice and Agenda had been circulated.)
Break for Zohr Salaat and lunch at 1pm and recommenced at 2.20pm.
(e) After further discussion it was concurred that Secretariat would write to WF seeking clarification on IIPS paper, and emphasised that it be discussed in the form that was originally presented. WF to be requested to share any additional comments they had received. It was agreed that the IIPS paper would be circulated to all EC for comments and discussed at a teleconference between the CoEJ WF Councillors before WF ExCO. It was further agreed that the CoEJ WF Councillors attending the ExCO would be proceeding in a similar way as they had done during the WF Conference (they would decide while there, at all times being mindful of safeguarding CoEJ interests).
(f) Media Strategy Resolution proposed by CoEJ and was passed at Conference. It was agreed that this would be pursued in light of the issues regarding Shia TV channels and media statements. Inclusion of Agenda item request to be made for the next WF ExCO.
(g) The Resolution proposed by Afed regarding the 7% levy, after much deliberation and serious concerns at the Conference that all options had not been explored fully, had been withdrawn.
(h) On the NGO Paper, Dr Akber Mohamedali advised that the paper on NGO had also not been thoroughly discussed.
(i) Concerns were also expressed by the EC regarding the extension of WF Office bearers and constitutional implications. It was suggested that clarification be sought from WF.
5. President’s Report
(a) It was advised that a slightly updated version (than the one previously circulated) of the report had been included in the pack. An addition to the report was “CoEJ had agreed to donate $10,000 towards the cemetery fund for Mauritius, pledged by donors’’.
Comments and observations:
(b) Br Kamruddin Khaki requested that it be recorded at this point that he felt proud at the way the MAM Tournament had been structured. Stanmore Jafferys presented a Plaque to CoEJ in recognition and appreciation of the MAMT.
(c) Br Razahusein Rahim requested information on issues that had emerged at the Leicester SND function. Dr Husein Jiwa advised that the seniors had requested progress on the Seniors Village. He further added that the Seniors felt that an invitation be extended to the youth of the community during SND functions. He also confirmed he had conveyed these comments to the SND Team.
(j) Dr Husein Jiwa advised that pledges had been received during the lunch break for the whole of the Switzerland shortfall for the 6 months. This included a personal donation from Br Amirali Merali, Executive Councillor of Africa Federation.
6. Hon Treasurer’s Report
(a) EHM accounts: Br Mohamed Mavani, the Treasurer explained that the EHM Ltd Audit had been completed. The signed accounts had been filed at the Companies House and the CT return had also been filed and acknowledgement received from HMRC with a tax liability of around £56.
(b) Group accounts: He added that the CoEJ accounts for the year to 30 June 2011 were ready for signing by the President at the end of the EC meeting.
(c) Management Accounts for the period ended 30 June 2011: Br Qasim Alidina distributed the Management Accounts for the 6-month period ended 30 June 2011. Br Mohamed Mavani advised that the Charity information had been updated to reflect the change in Trustees. Br Mohamed Mavani summarised the figures. He named the Jamaats that had paid their subscriptions. Br Mohamed Mavani said that the gift aid of £18,382 had now been received. A separate account for investment fund was in the process of being set up. He added that the balance due from EHM would be repaid once all their funds had been collected and further added that the Wessex loan had now cleared. Alim Grant funds would be utilised by the end of the year.
(d) In reply to Br Razahusein Rahim’s request, Br Mohamed Mavani said he would check on the new regulations regarding Gift Aid on collection boxes and pass on to Secretariat for information to Jamaats.
(e) Dr Husein Jiwa advised that WF President conveyed the message through Br Shabir Najafi (VP) Africa Federation that if there was a deficit of up to £5,000 for MAMT (both in ladies and gents) then CoEJ should approach Br Sajjad Tejani at the WF Treasury.
(f) Br Mohamed Mavani thanked Br Qasim Alidina and Br Mohamedkazim Bhaloo for their continued assistance in the treasury functions.
7. Budget preparation for next year
(a) A consensus on the budget approval process was sought from the Councillors. The current process in place required all Boards to submit their budgets at EC Meetings. It was suggested that the budgets be submitted by Boards and presented to the Treasury who would collate, scrutinise and revise as necessary following discussions with the appropriate Boards and only the final Treasury approved detailed budget would be presented at the EC Meeting for approval. Each project on the budget would not be discussed separately at EC level, however any queries on particular items would be addressed and the budgets then presented to WF.
(b) Br Mahmood Rehemtulla suggested EC Links should be involved in the discussions when team budgets were being prepared. Br Razahusein Rahim felt that EC Links should only be copied into the preparations of the budgets by Board Heads for any input and/or recommendations; it would be the Treasury who would finalise the financial appropriateness. Dr Husein Jiwa suggested that EC Links liaise with their respective Board Heads with a view to obtaining information and explanations on the budget during the preparation stage but not be directly involved in the actual preparation or discussions of the budgets.
8. Subcommittee Reports by EC Links
(a) Capacity Building by Dr Sarfraz Jeraj:
The Report was in the pack. Dr Sarfraz Jeraj said he was looking for approval of funding for £2,500 for LDP that was planned to take place during September-October of this year. Secretary General drew the Councillors attention to the appendix to the Capacity Building Report and added that a provision had not been made in the current year’s budget for capacity building as the team was set up during the year after the budgets had been approved. There was consensus that £2,500 be approved in the interim for the current year if there were unspent funds available in the treasury and if this was not the case then Secretary General would consider writing to WF to seek additional funds.
A welcome was extended to Br Habib Mukhtarali, the Vice President of Hujjat Jamaat who had just arrived.
(b) Education:
A message from Sis Waheeda Rahim was read out “There have been no recent events undertaken by the Education Board since the Revision course. However a report will be circulated in due course updating you all on the recent summer camp in Wales let by Br Sajjad Jaffer. The Education Board is also holding the annual UCAS Conference in September which is being led by Br Kazim Datoo.”
(c) EHM by Br Mohamedkazim Bhalloo:
The report was in the pack. Br Mohamedkazim Bhalloo advised that as this was the 25th year of EHM, £2000 had been approved towards promotion of Hajj and added that a souvenir magazine issue was being planned. Secretary General further added that since this was the 25th year of the European Hajj Mission (which was the flagship of CoEJ), during the Seniors Eid ul Fitr celebration, a token of appreciation had been planned to present to the volunteers in recognition for their diligent and tireless services to Hujjaj. All the Councillors concurred with this suggestion and on that note Br Kamruddin Khaki said Hujjat would be proud to host the Seniors Celebration. It was also suggested that adverts be sought for inclusion in the magazine to generate revenue. Br Mohamedkazim Bhalloo said he would revert after seeking the view of the Board.
(d) ICA by Br Razahusein Rahim:
The report was in the pack. Br Razahusein Rahim advised that Marhum Murtazabhai Lakha had undertaken the project of preparing a complete multi lingual video on Ehkam-e-Mayyit. However due to his untimely death, this had now been commissioned to a new lead. Unfortunately, due to unavoidable circumstances, this had also been held up. Dr Husein Jiwa enquired whether the Ghusl-Kafan leaflet from Wessex had been passed on to ICA adding that a donor had offered to fund the printing of this leaflet. It was confirmed that this had not been received by the ICA.
Br Habib Mukhtar requested clarity on the needs assessment of Jamaats especially when Alims were being invited. It was advised that ICA did not get involved in allocating Alims. However, when a Jamaat approached ICA regarding Alims, they would proceed by writing to Jamaats where an Alim may have previously served. He agreed that there were some issues and guidance was being sought from Mulla Mohammed Kassamali and Syed Mohamed Naqvi.
On the subject of the Shia TV channels, the figures of donation received had not been provided, however videos of Marhum Mulla Asgarali were being aired. The videos had been received from the Islamic Education Board. It was felt that WF should look into the media situation with a view to having an MOU that is shared with all the regions for consistency. It was concurred that the Media teleconference that had been cancelled be re-arranged within the next 2 weeks.
It was further explained that the media issue had been raised at the WF Conference in Dar es Salaam where WF had promised to take up the matter. It was reiterated that the media strategy as per the resolution passed at WF Conference in Dar es Salaam recently could be the means to address the issues and provide consistency across WF and all the regions.
(e) Khawateen by Sis Sukaina Manji:
The report was in the pack. Br Razahusein Rahim said he was impressed with the Buloogh camp for girls and felt this should be rolled out in all Jamaats, to include topics such as Ijtehad and Marjaiyyat. Sis Sukaina Manji advised that the camp was open to participants from all Jamaats; however the feedback would be conveyed to the Board. She added that requests had been received from parents for similar camps to be organised for young boys. Sis Sukaina Manji advised that the campers had returned from the Switzerland camp.
(f) Madressa by Br Mahmood Rehemtulla:
Madressa report was not in the pack.
Br Mahmood advised that some responsibility had been delegated to WF and in the interim had requested Secretariat that the Madressa Board Head and EC Link be copied in any correspondence regarding Madressa.
He added that the Madaris of Birmingham and Milton Keynes had requested teacher training to be carried out for their respective Madressa and WF were proceeding with that. Br Mahmood Rehemtulla added there were no current Madressa projects.
Br Razahusein Rahim added that at the Dubai Retreat a remit had been passed to appoint a CEO and in this respect a post was being advertised for a CEO for “the Centre of Excellence”. The curriculum and structure were being set up and a team of 6 people had been formed, with himself being one of them. Dr Husein Jiwa said the Chair of Madressa had been requested to call a meeting of all the Madressa Heads to discuss the issue of the Dubai Retreat and a report of the outcome be presented at a future CoEJ EC Meeting.
It was agreed that though WF were setting up ‘Madressa Centre of Excellence’, CoEJ Madressa Board had a role to play and thus be informed of any communication from WF and provide reports to the EC. The Board should continue and not be overshadowed by WF project and play a role in shaping the WF project. It was concluded that confirmation would be sought at the next WF ExCO on the operational plans of the WF project.
(g) MAMT by Br Shabbir Merali:
MAMT team were commended for a highly successful tournament. It was felt that this would have been a good opportunity of tapping into the captive youth audience for other initiatives. MAMT Ladies Tournament should be arranged as this had not taken place at the same time. The Youth Board should be approached for a needs assessment. Br Shabbir Merali, the EC Link of both Boards would liaise.
(h) Youth by Br Shabbir Merali:
Br Razahusein Rahim felt the Youth Desk needed to have closer liaison with ICA on the Zakireen Project in order that events are not duplicated. Br Razahusein Rahim added that the Youth Team had not provided names for the Student-Scholar link. (Two names from each Jamaat had been requested.) Br Shabbir Merali would contact Youth Chair for progress on this.
9. Any other Business
(a) Secretary General advised that at the WF Conference in Dar es Salaam, the CoEJ President had on behalf of CoEJ undertaken to raise $10,000 for the Mauritius Karbrastan. Secretary General felt that the CoEJ President should be empowered to pledge a certain amount if a need arose. After due deliberation it was proposed by Br Razahusein Rahim and seconded by Br Kamruddin Khaki that the President of CoEJ be empowered to give an undertaking to raise up to $10,000 on behalf of CoEJ if and when the need arose.
(b) Dr Husein Jiwa read out a message from WF President regarding Ijaza for Capital projects of Milton Keynes and Birmingham Jamaats. Milton Keynes, in the past, had an Ijaza to retain sehme imam and sehme sadat funds. However from now on, these funds had to be remitted to WF through CoEJ and at the same time they have to apply for a capital project paper. The capital projects team would fully support and assist them, and in return they would get a platform globally to raise money. He had further added that the circumstances were different for Essex Jamaat as their premises were being refurbished to allow more space. The Essex project has been temporarily stopped for the time being, due to negotiations with an interested party offering them a bigger plot in exchange of their existing plot.
Dr Husein Jiwa advised that in future where any Jamaat whose project was stopped for any reason, would have to remit any funds collected, to WF and these would then be returned to them on re-commencement of their project.
In reply to a query, the Treasurer replied that apart from the 3 Jamaats, namely Birmingham, Milton Keynes and Leeds, all Jamaats channelled their huqooq funds through CoEJ. It was reiterated that Leeds Jamaat would be sent a reminder that a condition for receiving an Alim Grant was that the Jamaat channelled funds to WF through CoEJ.
(c) Br Kamruddin Khaki proposed that CoEJ start a Foundation Fund with a view to gradually becoming self sufficient. There was consensus to this proposal amongst the councillors and Br Kamruddin Khaki was requested, and agreed to lead the Foundation Fund Team. The Team to include for the time being; Br Murtaza Bharwani and Dr Akber Mohamedali. Br Kamruddin Khaki was tasked to prepare a TOR.
(d) To a query on paucity of first aiders at the recent MAMT, Secretary General advised that HIB was working with MCB to arrange First Aid courses. It was pointed out that the Media Team had been absent from the recent MAMT and this was an opportunity missed where the good work of CoEJ could have been promoted.
(e) Br Amirbhai Merali said he had had a first meeting with a certain bank regarding Microfinance opportunities for loans to professionals. It was suggested that he arrange a feasibility meeting with Dr Husein Jiwa to discuss the options and once the details were clearer the matter could be shared with CoEJ Councillors.
(f) Br Kassam Jaffer (Hujjat Secretary) enquired whether there was a Relief Policy in place in connection with requests for platforms from non-Khoja organisations to raise funds. Secretary General advised there was one in place and this would be forwarded.
President welcomed everyone to and extended congratulations to Br Kamruddin Khaki on being elected as the President of London Hujjat Jamaat. President thanked Br Amir Merali (Executive Councillor of Africa Federation) for accepting invitation to attend the meeting.
Welcome speech and housekeeping rules by President of London Jamaat, Br Kamruddin Khaki.
On behalf of Stanmore Jaffery, Br Kamruddin Khaki presented a plaque to CoEJ for yet another excellently organised MAM Tournament.
Secretary General said he hoped he would be assisted by everyone to ensure that the meeting was conducted in a timely manner.
1. Minutes of last Meeting and matters arising therefrom
Minutes approved subject to the following two amendments:
Page 2: (c) Remove the sentence ‘The revised document was in the pack.’
Page 2: (c) Remove the words ‘and ratified by the Executive Council’
Proposed by Br Mahmood Rehemtulla and Seconded by: Br Shabbir Merali
Matters arising
(a) Dr Helmi – (Page 1): Br Razahusein Rahim said he had met Dr Ali Helmi who had assured him that he had done what he could and the matter was now with the Iranian Ambassador.
(b) Switzerland shortfall – (Action Point 1, Page 2): – Br Husseinali Rehemtulla advised that the actual shortfall was £550; and added they had been trying to find local donors. After discussion Dr Husein Jiwa proposed and all the Councillors approved that CoEJ could undertake to find donors for £400 per month and the situation would be reviewed in 6 months’ time. Donations were pledged by various donors. Dr Husein Jiwa added that after 6 months the situation would be revisited.
(c) Alim Hadiya: Secretary General commented that some Jamaats had not provided the information.
(d) President’s Report: Dr Husein Jiwa recommended formation of a Matrimonial Reconciliation Team and suggested the team to comprise of Syed Mohamed Naqvi, Br Mustafa Jaffer, Mulla Mohamed Kassamali and added that Syed Mohamed Naqvi be given mandate to come up with a TOR to start processes. He confirmed that these people had agreed to be part of the team and that Br Sajjad Manji would be the Admin contact. At Br Murtaza Bharwani’s request (who had not been present at the last meeting), Dr Husein Jiwa explained what had transpired during the meeting with Maulana Zafar Abbas and added that the team would have links in Jamaats and compile a report (when necessary) as requested by Maulana Zafar Abbas to review. After discussion the EC concurred that the team should include a lady (Alima).
(e) Hilal Update on System and Processes (Action Point 2, Page 4): Br Kamruddin Khaki requested Br Makbul Jaffer to explain the issue of Hilal Statement on Hujjat website. Br Makbul Jaffer gave an explanation on sometimes differing views and added that members of TAIA now worked with and were part of HAT. Dr Husein Jiwa added that the statement on Hujjat website be the same as the HAT statement.
(f) Hon Treasurer’s Report (b): Treasurer advised that the CoEJ Office lease had been extended as discussed at the last EC meeting and the rent increased to £1000 commencing July 2011.
(g) Subcommittee Reports, Khawateen: Sis Sukaina Manji thanked Secretary General for reading out the Khawateen report on her behalf.
2. CoEJ Conference date and Venue
Secretary General requested consensus for Saturday 15 October 2011 to be the date of Conference. Secretary General added that Wessex had offered their new centre as a venue; however it was unlikely to be ready and available by the 15 October as advised by their builders. The date was agreed for the Conference and the venue, as proposed by Br Mahmood Al-Najar, confirmed as Zainabiya Centre, Milton Keynes
3. CoEJ Plans ‘Striving for a brighter future
Secretary General gave a preamble on the discussion paper on ‘Striving for a Brighter future’ included in the pack. Councillors were all in agreement that this was an excellent initiative and gave their input. After discussion Secretary General requested Dr Sarfraz Jeraj, who agreed to lead a working group. Dr Akber Mohamedali, Br Mahmood Rehemtulla and Br Shabbir Merali expressed an interest to be part of the "Striving for a Brighter Future" planning work group. It was agreed that the process outline would be initially prepared as well as an away day be facilitated with a view to having the Strategic Plan finalised by early part of 2012.
| Action Point 1: Dr Sarfraz Jeraj to liaise via email with Dr Akber Mohamedali, Br Mahmood Rehemtulla, Br Shabbir Merali |
4. WF Conference May 2011
Secretary General gave an overview of the WF Conference:
(a) The WF elections had concluded smoothly.
(b) The Madressa Centre of Excellence initiative had been approved and each region had made a commitment to help raise $50,000 every year for two years. The detailed plans would be discussed at the next WF ExCO and CoEJ would be keen to comment on the operational plans ensuring that checks and balances were in place to avoid a similar situation as the IIPS situation.
(c) The Budgets for the 3 years were approved at the Conference.
(d) Secretary General advised the IIPS paper had been presented at the WF Conference last May in Dar es Salaam. However due to time constraints it had not been discussed. It was an item of Agenda at the WF ExCO due to take place at KSIMC of London Hujjat on 24-25 September 2011 (Notice and Agenda had been circulated.)
Break for Zohr Salaat and lunch at 1pm and recommenced at 2.20pm.
(e) After further discussion it was concurred that Secretariat would write to WF seeking clarification on IIPS paper, and emphasised that it be discussed in the form that was originally presented. WF to be requested to share any additional comments they had received. It was agreed that the IIPS paper would be circulated to all EC for comments and discussed at a teleconference between the CoEJ WF Councillors before WF ExCO. It was further agreed that the CoEJ WF Councillors attending the ExCO would be proceeding in a similar way as they had done during the WF Conference (they would decide while there, at all times being mindful of safeguarding CoEJ interests).
(f) Media Strategy Resolution proposed by CoEJ and was passed at Conference. It was agreed that this would be pursued in light of the issues regarding Shia TV channels and media statements. Inclusion of Agenda item request to be made for the next WF ExCO.
(g) The Resolution proposed by Afed regarding the 7% levy, after much deliberation and serious concerns at the Conference that all options had not been explored fully, had been withdrawn.
(h) On the NGO Paper, Dr Akber Mohamedali advised that the paper on NGO had also not been thoroughly discussed.
(i) Concerns were also expressed by the EC regarding the extension of WF Office bearers and constitutional implications. It was suggested that clarification be sought from WF.
| Action Point 2: Secretariat to write to WF regarding IIP paper and appointment of Assistant OBs and addition of an Agenda item for next ExCO regarding Media Strategy |
5. President’s Report
(a) It was advised that a slightly updated version (than the one previously circulated) of the report had been included in the pack. An addition to the report was “CoEJ had agreed to donate $10,000 towards the cemetery fund for Mauritius, pledged by donors’’.
Comments and observations:
(b) Br Kamruddin Khaki requested that it be recorded at this point that he felt proud at the way the MAM Tournament had been structured. Stanmore Jafferys presented a Plaque to CoEJ in recognition and appreciation of the MAMT.
(c) Br Razahusein Rahim requested information on issues that had emerged at the Leicester SND function. Dr Husein Jiwa advised that the seniors had requested progress on the Seniors Village. He further added that the Seniors felt that an invitation be extended to the youth of the community during SND functions. He also confirmed he had conveyed these comments to the SND Team.
(j) Dr Husein Jiwa advised that pledges had been received during the lunch break for the whole of the Switzerland shortfall for the 6 months. This included a personal donation from Br Amirali Merali, Executive Councillor of Africa Federation.
6. Hon Treasurer’s Report
(a) EHM accounts: Br Mohamed Mavani, the Treasurer explained that the EHM Ltd Audit had been completed. The signed accounts had been filed at the Companies House and the CT return had also been filed and acknowledgement received from HMRC with a tax liability of around £56.
(b) Group accounts: He added that the CoEJ accounts for the year to 30 June 2011 were ready for signing by the President at the end of the EC meeting.
(c) Management Accounts for the period ended 30 June 2011: Br Qasim Alidina distributed the Management Accounts for the 6-month period ended 30 June 2011. Br Mohamed Mavani advised that the Charity information had been updated to reflect the change in Trustees. Br Mohamed Mavani summarised the figures. He named the Jamaats that had paid their subscriptions. Br Mohamed Mavani said that the gift aid of £18,382 had now been received. A separate account for investment fund was in the process of being set up. He added that the balance due from EHM would be repaid once all their funds had been collected and further added that the Wessex loan had now cleared. Alim Grant funds would be utilised by the end of the year.
(d) In reply to Br Razahusein Rahim’s request, Br Mohamed Mavani said he would check on the new regulations regarding Gift Aid on collection boxes and pass on to Secretariat for information to Jamaats.
(e) Dr Husein Jiwa advised that WF President conveyed the message through Br Shabir Najafi (VP) Africa Federation that if there was a deficit of up to £5,000 for MAMT (both in ladies and gents) then CoEJ should approach Br Sajjad Tejani at the WF Treasury.
(f) Br Mohamed Mavani thanked Br Qasim Alidina and Br Mohamedkazim Bhaloo for their continued assistance in the treasury functions.
| Action Point 3: Treasurer to check the new regulations regarding Gift aid |
7. Budget preparation for next year
(a) A consensus on the budget approval process was sought from the Councillors. The current process in place required all Boards to submit their budgets at EC Meetings. It was suggested that the budgets be submitted by Boards and presented to the Treasury who would collate, scrutinise and revise as necessary following discussions with the appropriate Boards and only the final Treasury approved detailed budget would be presented at the EC Meeting for approval. Each project on the budget would not be discussed separately at EC level, however any queries on particular items would be addressed and the budgets then presented to WF.
(b) Br Mahmood Rehemtulla suggested EC Links should be involved in the discussions when team budgets were being prepared. Br Razahusein Rahim felt that EC Links should only be copied into the preparations of the budgets by Board Heads for any input and/or recommendations; it would be the Treasury who would finalise the financial appropriateness. Dr Husein Jiwa suggested that EC Links liaise with their respective Board Heads with a view to obtaining information and explanations on the budget during the preparation stage but not be directly involved in the actual preparation or discussions of the budgets.
8. Subcommittee Reports by EC Links
(a) Capacity Building by Dr Sarfraz Jeraj:
The Report was in the pack. Dr Sarfraz Jeraj said he was looking for approval of funding for £2,500 for LDP that was planned to take place during September-October of this year. Secretary General drew the Councillors attention to the appendix to the Capacity Building Report and added that a provision had not been made in the current year’s budget for capacity building as the team was set up during the year after the budgets had been approved. There was consensus that £2,500 be approved in the interim for the current year if there were unspent funds available in the treasury and if this was not the case then Secretary General would consider writing to WF to seek additional funds.
A welcome was extended to Br Habib Mukhtarali, the Vice President of Hujjat Jamaat who had just arrived.
(b) Education:
A message from Sis Waheeda Rahim was read out “There have been no recent events undertaken by the Education Board since the Revision course. However a report will be circulated in due course updating you all on the recent summer camp in Wales let by Br Sajjad Jaffer. The Education Board is also holding the annual UCAS Conference in September which is being led by Br Kazim Datoo.”
(c) EHM by Br Mohamedkazim Bhalloo:
The report was in the pack. Br Mohamedkazim Bhalloo advised that as this was the 25th year of EHM, £2000 had been approved towards promotion of Hajj and added that a souvenir magazine issue was being planned. Secretary General further added that since this was the 25th year of the European Hajj Mission (which was the flagship of CoEJ), during the Seniors Eid ul Fitr celebration, a token of appreciation had been planned to present to the volunteers in recognition for their diligent and tireless services to Hujjaj. All the Councillors concurred with this suggestion and on that note Br Kamruddin Khaki said Hujjat would be proud to host the Seniors Celebration. It was also suggested that adverts be sought for inclusion in the magazine to generate revenue. Br Mohamedkazim Bhalloo said he would revert after seeking the view of the Board.
(d) ICA by Br Razahusein Rahim:
The report was in the pack. Br Razahusein Rahim advised that Marhum Murtazabhai Lakha had undertaken the project of preparing a complete multi lingual video on Ehkam-e-Mayyit. However due to his untimely death, this had now been commissioned to a new lead. Unfortunately, due to unavoidable circumstances, this had also been held up. Dr Husein Jiwa enquired whether the Ghusl-Kafan leaflet from Wessex had been passed on to ICA adding that a donor had offered to fund the printing of this leaflet. It was confirmed that this had not been received by the ICA.
Br Habib Mukhtar requested clarity on the needs assessment of Jamaats especially when Alims were being invited. It was advised that ICA did not get involved in allocating Alims. However, when a Jamaat approached ICA regarding Alims, they would proceed by writing to Jamaats where an Alim may have previously served. He agreed that there were some issues and guidance was being sought from Mulla Mohammed Kassamali and Syed Mohamed Naqvi.
On the subject of the Shia TV channels, the figures of donation received had not been provided, however videos of Marhum Mulla Asgarali were being aired. The videos had been received from the Islamic Education Board. It was felt that WF should look into the media situation with a view to having an MOU that is shared with all the regions for consistency. It was concurred that the Media teleconference that had been cancelled be re-arranged within the next 2 weeks.
It was further explained that the media issue had been raised at the WF Conference in Dar es Salaam where WF had promised to take up the matter. It was reiterated that the media strategy as per the resolution passed at WF Conference in Dar es Salaam recently could be the means to address the issues and provide consistency across WF and all the regions.
| Action Point 4: Media Teleconference to be re-arranged again, within a week or a fortnight if possible and before the WF ExCO – Dr Akber Mohamedali and Br Razahusein Rahim to initiate |
(e) Khawateen by Sis Sukaina Manji:
The report was in the pack. Br Razahusein Rahim said he was impressed with the Buloogh camp for girls and felt this should be rolled out in all Jamaats, to include topics such as Ijtehad and Marjaiyyat. Sis Sukaina Manji advised that the camp was open to participants from all Jamaats; however the feedback would be conveyed to the Board. She added that requests had been received from parents for similar camps to be organised for young boys. Sis Sukaina Manji advised that the campers had returned from the Switzerland camp.
| Action Point 5: Youth or Education to look into feasibility of organising camps for young boys |
(f) Madressa by Br Mahmood Rehemtulla:
Madressa report was not in the pack.
Br Mahmood advised that some responsibility had been delegated to WF and in the interim had requested Secretariat that the Madressa Board Head and EC Link be copied in any correspondence regarding Madressa.
He added that the Madaris of Birmingham and Milton Keynes had requested teacher training to be carried out for their respective Madressa and WF were proceeding with that. Br Mahmood Rehemtulla added there were no current Madressa projects.
Br Razahusein Rahim added that at the Dubai Retreat a remit had been passed to appoint a CEO and in this respect a post was being advertised for a CEO for “the Centre of Excellence”. The curriculum and structure were being set up and a team of 6 people had been formed, with himself being one of them. Dr Husein Jiwa said the Chair of Madressa had been requested to call a meeting of all the Madressa Heads to discuss the issue of the Dubai Retreat and a report of the outcome be presented at a future CoEJ EC Meeting.
It was agreed that though WF were setting up ‘Madressa Centre of Excellence’, CoEJ Madressa Board had a role to play and thus be informed of any communication from WF and provide reports to the EC. The Board should continue and not be overshadowed by WF project and play a role in shaping the WF project. It was concluded that confirmation would be sought at the next WF ExCO on the operational plans of the WF project.
| Action Point 6: Br Mahmood Rehemtulla to remind the Chair of Madressa to call the meeting of the Madressa Heads of all the Jamaats at the earliest. |
(g) MAMT by Br Shabbir Merali:
MAMT team were commended for a highly successful tournament. It was felt that this would have been a good opportunity of tapping into the captive youth audience for other initiatives. MAMT Ladies Tournament should be arranged as this had not taken place at the same time. The Youth Board should be approached for a needs assessment. Br Shabbir Merali, the EC Link of both Boards would liaise.
(h) Youth by Br Shabbir Merali:
Br Razahusein Rahim felt the Youth Desk needed to have closer liaison with ICA on the Zakireen Project in order that events are not duplicated. Br Razahusein Rahim added that the Youth Team had not provided names for the Student-Scholar link. (Two names from each Jamaat had been requested.) Br Shabbir Merali would contact Youth Chair for progress on this.
| Action Point 7: Br Shabbir Merali to contact Youth Chair for names for Student-Scholar link. |
9. Any other Business
(a) Secretary General advised that at the WF Conference in Dar es Salaam, the CoEJ President had on behalf of CoEJ undertaken to raise $10,000 for the Mauritius Karbrastan. Secretary General felt that the CoEJ President should be empowered to pledge a certain amount if a need arose. After due deliberation it was proposed by Br Razahusein Rahim and seconded by Br Kamruddin Khaki that the President of CoEJ be empowered to give an undertaking to raise up to $10,000 on behalf of CoEJ if and when the need arose.
(b) Dr Husein Jiwa read out a message from WF President regarding Ijaza for Capital projects of Milton Keynes and Birmingham Jamaats. Milton Keynes, in the past, had an Ijaza to retain sehme imam and sehme sadat funds. However from now on, these funds had to be remitted to WF through CoEJ and at the same time they have to apply for a capital project paper. The capital projects team would fully support and assist them, and in return they would get a platform globally to raise money. He had further added that the circumstances were different for Essex Jamaat as their premises were being refurbished to allow more space. The Essex project has been temporarily stopped for the time being, due to negotiations with an interested party offering them a bigger plot in exchange of their existing plot.
Dr Husein Jiwa advised that in future where any Jamaat whose project was stopped for any reason, would have to remit any funds collected, to WF and these would then be returned to them on re-commencement of their project.
In reply to a query, the Treasurer replied that apart from the 3 Jamaats, namely Birmingham, Milton Keynes and Leeds, all Jamaats channelled their huqooq funds through CoEJ. It was reiterated that Leeds Jamaat would be sent a reminder that a condition for receiving an Alim Grant was that the Jamaat channelled funds to WF through CoEJ.
(c) Br Kamruddin Khaki proposed that CoEJ start a Foundation Fund with a view to gradually becoming self sufficient. There was consensus to this proposal amongst the councillors and Br Kamruddin Khaki was requested, and agreed to lead the Foundation Fund Team. The Team to include for the time being; Br Murtaza Bharwani and Dr Akber Mohamedali. Br Kamruddin Khaki was tasked to prepare a TOR.
(d) To a query on paucity of first aiders at the recent MAMT, Secretary General advised that HIB was working with MCB to arrange First Aid courses. It was pointed out that the Media Team had been absent from the recent MAMT and this was an opportunity missed where the good work of CoEJ could have been promoted.
| Action Point 8: Dr Akber Mohamedali to take up with HIB and Media Team |
(e) Br Amirbhai Merali said he had had a first meeting with a certain bank regarding Microfinance opportunities for loans to professionals. It was suggested that he arrange a feasibility meeting with Dr Husein Jiwa to discuss the options and once the details were clearer the matter could be shared with CoEJ Councillors.
(f) Br Kassam Jaffer (Hujjat Secretary) enquired whether there was a Relief Policy in place in connection with requests for platforms from non-Khoja organisations to raise funds. Secretary General advised there was one in place and this would be forwarded.
| Action Point 9: Secretariat to forward the Relief policy to Hujjat Jamaat |
(g) CRB Checks: To a request from Br Kassam Jaffer, Secretary General explained that CoEJ is an umbrella body with the Criminal Records Bureau, and Secretariat carry out checks for Madressa and other organisations. He advised Br Kassam Jaffer to contact the Secretariat for further details.
(h) Volunteer Code of Conduct: Br Kassam Jaffer advised that Hujjat Jamaat was preparing a contract which all volunteers would be requested to sign. Secretary General thanked Br Kassam Jaffer for sharing their practice. Br Sadiq Datoo advised that a “Volunteer Handbook” was on the WF Website.
(i) Secretary General requested Councillors to promote Ramadan Relief in their Jamaats (packs of posters and leaflets were handed to the Councillors).
(j) Salawat of appreciation was recited for the donor who pledged approximately £2,000 towards Essex Jamaat for hiring of a school to hold their Madressa classes during the rebuilding of their centre.
10. Date of Next Meeting:
The date of Next Meeting was set for 26 November 2011 (Budget Meeting). Venue agreed as Al Zahra Centre, Watford.
The meeting was brought to a close at 5:00 pm with a short Dua’ by Br Razahusein Rahim.
The Council of European Jamaats
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Telephone: +44 (0)845 330 6012
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Email: secretariat@coej.org
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