PRESS RELEASE:

Cardiff University Islamic Society (CUIS) wishes to express its deep disappointment at the initial publication by the Gair Rhydd newspaper of the pictures depicting our blessed and beloved Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him).

The right to express ones opinion is a valued gift that should be exercised responsibly and maturely, taking into account the equal right of the sanctity and beliefs of others to be respected. The decision to publish the images was insensitive and totally unacceptable, serving only to intensify feelings of frustration that exist in the Muslim community.

We praise the work of the Students’ Union in acting promptly and appropriately to withdraw all copies of the newspaper in circulation and welcome the suspension of the editor and associated staff. Muslim students are proud to be affiliated with the university because of the environment of tolerance and understanding that exists here on campus.

We call on the newspaper to issue a formal apology, in addition to a full investigation into the incident ensuring that the necessary action is taken to prevent similar incidences in future. We also urge that Muslims act in a responsible manner when confronted with the issue.

We will continue to work closely with the Students’ Union to ensure the matter is resolved accordingly