Dear Editor
The Saudi Embassy’s decision to transition South Africa to the Nusuk Hajj Direct Platform has resulted in allegations of self enrichment by the South African Hajj and Umrah Council (SAHUC), which previously acted as an intermediary for pilgrims.
The DA has written to the Department of Social Development to request a probe into the SAHUC finances as an NPO. Social Development maintains a registry and regulates NPOs.
The DA this week has also acted by writing to the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) and the Chairperson of the Commission for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of Cultural, Religious and Linguistic Communities (CRL Rights Commission), demanding immediate intervention.
Both DIRCO and the CRL Rights Commission must formally withdraw all mandates, letters, or recognition granted to SAHUC. This step is crucial in ensuring that SAHUC no longer operates in a capacity that could exploit or disadvantage South African Muslim pilgrims.
SAHUC must return all monies collected from pilgrims, as their role is no longer applicable under the new Nusuk Hajj Direct platform. This demand aims to protect the financial interests of pilgrims who have been affected by SAHUC’s operations.
In our correspondence with the CRL Rights Commission, we have specifically requested that they take formal action to withdraw SAHUC’s mandate and ensure the return of assets. Given the Embassy’s clear directive and concerns about SAHUC’s operations, it is imperative that the CRL Rights Commission acts swiftly to protect the interests of South African Muslim pilgrims.
We believe that these actions are necessary to protect the rights and interests of South African Muslim pilgrims and to promote transparency and accountability in the Hajj pilgrimage process. By withdrawing SAHUC’s mandate, returning pilgrims’ monies, and investigating financial dealings, we can ensure that the transition to the Nusuk Hajj Direct platform is smooth and beneficial for all stakeholders involved.
Regards
Haseena Ismail MP
DA Spokesperson on Tourism