Wednesday, 11 July 2018

Statement on the Passing of the Grand Mufti of Australia, Sheikh Abdel Aziem Al-Afifi

As Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs, and on behalf of the Liberal Nationals Coalition, I wish to
extend my deepest condolences to the family of Sheikh Abdel Aziem Al-Afifi, the Grand Mufti of Australia,
as well as to members of the Muslim community, at this very difficult time.

Sheikh Al-Afifi was well-known for his service to the Muslim community for over 20 years, being a founding
member and serving for two terms as the President of the Australian National Imams Council (ANIC), as
well as being elected to the position of Grand Mufti of Australia in March, 2018.

Born in Egypt, with a degree In Islamic Studies, and a postgraduate degree in Qur’anic recitations, the
Grand Mufti was a proud Victorian and provided gentle but visionary leadership to the Islamic community.

His loved ones, as well as Muslims in Victoria and across Australia, mourn his passing, but honour and
celebrate his long-standing contribution to the Islamic community.

The funeral will take place tomorrow, 12th July, at 12:30pm after Duhr prayer at Al-Taqwa Masjid, 201
Sayers Road, Truganina, VIC 3029. This will be followed by the burial at Fawkner Cemetery, 1187 Sydney
Road, Fawkner, VIC 3060 at 3:00pm.

Once again, as Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs, and on behalf of the Liberal Nationals Coalition, I
extend my deepest condolences on the passing of Sheikh Abdel Aziem Al-Afifi, the Grand Mufti of Australia.

CONTACT: INGA PEULICH (03) 9772 1366