Leaders International Forum - LIF

[mahebubchatur]

Draft Letter

Dear LIF, and All, including members of the Noorani family,

At the Aga Khan Award for Architecture ceremony in Kyrgyzstan, several senior members of the Leaders’ International Forum (LIF) were present, including Mr. Shafik Sachedina, Mr. Barkat Fazal, and Mr. Malik Talib. These individuals are long-standing leaders of constitutional entities under the Ismaili Constitution and have held positions of authority for over three decades.

In a short clip from the event, Mr. Sachedina stated that Mawlana Hazar Imam is “not walking but running a marathon” and will “take the Jamat to a different level,” emphasizing education. This is indeed a powerful statement from those representing the institutions of the Jamat.

However, it also raises profound contradictions.

For decades, these and other LIF leaders and related entities—including the Ismaili Imamat as a legal institution registered in Portugal—have failed to respond to repeated requests from the Jamat. They continue to withhold the Ismaili Constitution, Farmans, and other fundamental guidance. These are not optional matters but rights entrusted to the Jamat by the Imam himself. Despite their mandate, these leaders have chosen silence and inaction.

It is important to recall that these three were actively involved in the lawsuit filed in the Imam’s name to unsuccessfully attempt to block the sharing by the Jamat of Farmans including the constitution - a Farman (2010–2015), a case that ultimately failed.

Since the time of Imam Shah Karim (our 49th Imam), community members have asked specific questions and made appeals for accountability, yet these remain unanswered. In the past decade alone, the withholding of the Constitution and the denial of access to worship during Didar—such as in Mozambique, Paris, Kenya, and Uganda—has caused immense pain to the Jamat. Testimonies confirm that murids were excluded from worship in sacred Didar gatherings, even though they came out of love, devotion, and sacrifice to worship in the Imam’s luminous presence—who was clearly and evidently happy to see them and accept their worship.

Hazar Imam himself has shown grace and openness—speaking directly to murids, moving toward them despite attempts to block access, and not allowing himself to be hidden or distanced. These moments of love, blessings, and compassion demonstrate the true Light of the Imam and our faith, yet they stand in stark opposition to the restrictive practices enforced by long-standing leaders representing the Jamat and its institutions.

In this context, I respectfully request that the Leaders’ International Forum release the full video of Mr. Sachedina’s statement in Kyrgyzstan to the entire Jamat. The Jamat deserves to hear in full what its long-serving leaders are saying today on its behalf. Transparency is the minimum standard, according to Farmans, and is expected of those entrusted under the Ismaili Constitution and Farmans.

As murids of the Imam, we must be vigilant and truthful: we cannot and must not ignore decades of unresponsiveness and exclusion.

As Imam has said in Farmans, leaders are accountable, and we must hold them to account while remembering that our ultimate allegiance is to Hazar Imam and the guidance he has given—for the Jamat and its progress, dignity, and for the enabling & inclusion of the Jamat, for the Jamat, by the Jamat.

For reference, I have also shared this at:
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1967 ... hqfO552USg

Ya Ali Madad,

[mahebubchatur]

Dear All, including LIF & the Noorani family,

In this video clip, Mr. Nizar Daredia speaks very specifically and emotionally about two vulnerable elderly murids in India one who urgently need medical care and has died, and the second about his need for proper basic accommodation.

He adds thos is not a question of shortage of funds. Thousands of donors have given – and continue to give – generously in the name of Mawlana Hazar Imam. The Leaders have access to ample funds of the Jamat.

The real issue is the nepotism and cronyism of certain leaders today.

Mr. Nizar rightly says it should not require him, or members of the Jamat, to intervene personally in order for such vulnerable individuals to be cared for. He calls upon the Jamat to help, and he points out that leaders are failing to honour their responsibility. They are not using their own money, yet too often they direct support only to friends and families, & appointing them to positions as well. This needs to stop. And those Leaders to resign change or be changed now - The Jamat must support Imam and Jamat not them who do not do what Imam has asked

Our Imam has clearly guided us that the poor must not only be supported for survival, but also enabled to live with self-reliance and dignity. Their needs should be met in one place, through “one-stop” services, so they do not have to go from institution to institution in search of help. This was a direct guidance in the Golden Jubilee of 2008, but it has still not been implemented.

It is our collective responsibility not to tolerate such neglect. These resources are not the leaders’ personal funds – they are an amanat (trust) given in Imam’s name, and leadership has a duty to use them responsibly.

Please watch this video, reflect on the situation, and act so that these injustices are addressed. Leaders must fulfill Imam’s Farmans — including not withholding the Constitution, the Farmans, access , and the resources of the Jamat from the Jamat.

Please help & share this with all

With prayers and best wishes,

Link to video
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1FKHBE ... tid=wwXIfr

Mahebub Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

Subject: Call to Action on Farman from Hazar Imam - His Highness the Aga Khan – Kenya, August 2025

Dear All, and all members of the Noorani Family,

I am sharing following reflections, analysis, and interpretation of the Farman - guidance recently delivered by His Highness the Aga Khan to the Jamat in Kenya during Didar (August 2025).

This is to reflect on the meaning of Imam’s words, reminder logically and spiritually, to ensure that the community and all its leaders understand and act upon the guidance that has been clearly articulated by Hazar Imam

Quotation from His Highness the Aga Khan (Farman, Kenya, August 2025):

“My dear Jamat,
I would like us to support those most in need, to ensure satisfactory living conditions for all members of my Jamat, to support the development of all the skills necessary for employment or entrepreneurship. By working together collaboratively, I believe we can enable members of our community to achieve financial independence and economic stability. This is our duty and our opportunity as a Jamat. Nothing stands still in life. If you stand still, you will be left behind. The job or business you are in today may not exist in its current form in the years or months ahead. So seek opportunities to expand your skills and knowledge. If you keep learning, you will be better able to adapt. Do not be afraid of gaining new skills. Gain new skills to expand your employment or business opportunities. I want my Jamat to be prosperous, to earn well, to live comfortable and healthy lives. The generation of your income must be gained through honorable, legal and ethical means. Do not harm yourselves, or the Jamat, or others, by engaging in questionable business dealings. My Jamat should be law-abiding, honest men and women of integrity. I would like people to say ‘that is an Ismaili – his word is reliable; that is an Ismaili – I can trust her.’

As Imam of the Time, I will continue to build on the legacy of the Imams who came before me and will guide the Jamat and my institutions in the context of the world today, and to prepare for the future. We should not fear change; we will adapt and make change as necessary. The fundamental principles and values of our faith have not changed. We learn them from the Quran, from the example of Prophet Mohamed (May Peace Be Upon Him) and from the firmans of the Imams. Treating people with respect, dignity and kindness; helping those in need, supporting and caring for one another – these are among the principles of our faith. They are universal for all time. How we behave towards others is an expression of our faith. Our values of ethical conduct, honesty, integrity, fair treatment of others, generosity and kindness, should inform all your interactions. These values should underpin how you live your lives. They’re not separate from you. Allah is not separate from you. Keep the remembrance of Allah close to you. He is the creator of everything; everything you see around you was created by Him. Have gratitude in your hearts and remember Him. Remember the Prophet, remember your Imams – this will bring you peace, stability and happiness in your lives. I am sure of this.

When you can, come to pray together in Jamatkhana. Coming together as a community strengthens each and every one of us individually, as it strengthens the whole Jamat. I want my Jamat to be strong. To be stronger and stronger, and for this, we need each other. Isolation and decline in human contact is weakening modern society. This is not for us, this is not for our community. I want each and every member of my Jamat, each one, to feel they are part of a strong, vibrant community. Every one of us has a part to play in improving the living experience of others. It makes me sad to learn of the isolation, and loneliness, of some elderly members of the Jamat. That loneliness in the young as well. Make an effort to bring them into the community, help them to participate in Jamati events. This would be a great service.”

⸻

Meaning Analysis and Interpretation:
1. Not NEW Guidance – A Clear Reminder to Leaders:
His Highness is not issuing new guidance or principles. Rather, this Fairman is a forceful reminder of Farmans - values and duties of Leaders that have always been central to our faith: integrity, ethical conduct, honesty, fairness, pluralism, generosity, and mutual support. The very need to articulate this guidance highlights that these principles have not yet been fully realized within the community by its leaders. If not Imam would not need to remind
2. Responsibility of Leaders and Community Members:
This Fairman clearly reminds leaders—including those within the Noorani Family—of their responsibility to act. The guidance calls for implementation of principles that should have already been applied, ensuring empowerment, inclusion, and ethical conduct across all levels of community life. Leaders must now act decisively to correct past omissions.
3. Action-Oriented and Practical Guidance:
His Highness explicitly links values with practical action: supporting those most in need, developing employment and entrepreneurship skills, fostering economic independence, ensuring participation in Jamati life, and addressing isolation and loneliness. These are not abstract ideals—they require measurable action.
4. Pluralism and Collective Duty:
The Fairman emphasizes that the Jamat is strongest when it functions as a vibrant, collaborative community. Pluralism, inclusivity, and mutual support are not optional; they are collective responsibilities that must be actualized by both leaders and community members.
5. Use of Intellect and Reflection:
His Highness repeatedly encourages the Jamat to reflect, think, and act with intellect, interpreting his guidance spiritually, ethically, and logically. This reinforces that leadership and the community must understand, internalize, and apply these principles consistently.

Conclusion and Call to Action:

I submit this to all and all members of the Noorani Family and the broader leaders : this Fairman is yet another current reminder, not new guidance.

The Farmans and goals outlined—integrity, pluralism, sharing, fairness, and ethical conduct—must now be fully realized.

Leaders and members must reflect on past failures, correct omissions, and actively implement these principles in every facet of Jamati life.

As Imam has said - I welcome open dialogue with any member of the leadership or the Leaders International Forum who wishes to discuss, clarify, or offer their interpretation of His Highness’s Farmans & guidance.

Let us all engage intellectually and spiritually, as instructed by the Imam of the Time, to ensure that the Jamat becomes the living embodiment of these values which Imam has asked us to do

Those Leaders unwilling or unable to share & implement Farmans & guidance must either reflect and change or step aside, so that the collective duty of the community can be fulfilled.

Respectfully,
M Chatur

[Admin]

Subject: video Testimony on Facebook with evidence & names of Mr. Nizar Daredia — urgent request for response, transparency, and restoration of community resources

Ya Ali Madad

Dear All (including IIS leaders, the Leaders’ International Forum, the Jamat, community leaders, and the Noorani family),

No crossposting of same message allowed as the case of this one in more than one heading. The other one in CAB has been kept, this one duplicate has been deleted.

[mahebubchatur]

Dear All, including LIF, IIS, AKDN & the Noorani Family,

In 2013, Mawlana Hazar Imam confirmed a global project to establish 18 Aga Khan Academies in 14 countries.

Today, however, the Aga Khan Academies website lists only four, with no details on:
• which Academies are currently operational,
• which are under construction, and
• which remain in progress.

This raises important questions:
1. Can the 2013 full project plan for the 18 Academies be shared with the Jamat, so we are fully aware of the scope and current status?
2. If there have been changes, can details be provided on what was modified, when, and whether these changes were formally approved by Hazar Imam?
3. Status evaluations were to be conducted every three years since 2013. Can the Jamat be given copies of these reports?

Education remains one of Hazar Imam’s highest priorities, including the teaching of pluralism in every school — a principle championed through the Global Centre for Pluralism and reinforced in Farmans for more than three decades. Yet, the details requested, and clarity on how far this mandate has been implemented across the Academies, remain absent. This vital goal is not yet fully achieved.

Hazar Imam said in 2013:

“Our planning is that there eventually will be 18 Academies, situated in 14 countries. … The Hyderabad Academy is the second to be inaugurated, following the one in Mombasa, Kenya. Construction is now underway in Mozambique and active planning is taking place for Dar es Salaam in Tanzania, Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan, and Dhaka, Bangladesh. The other planned sites range from Afghanistan and Tajikistan to Uganda, from Tanzania to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, from Madagascar to Mali, from Syria to Pakistan, and Portugal.”

The Academy project was also confirmed by Hazar Imam as being based on merit and financial support: every eligible student would be admitted, regardless of ability to pay. Therefore, I ask:
• Has this commitment been honoured since 2013?
• Have all meritorious students been admitted, without exclusion?
• Can we be assured that no nepotism, favouritism, or cronyism has influenced admissions or governance?

Since the Academies form part of the Aga Khan Development Network — managed for decades by the same executive group and boards — transparency and accountability are essential, as repeatedly confirmed by Imam.

The Jamat requires clarity on:
• whether the Academies will still reach the original vision of 18 in 14 countries,
• whether pluralism is truly being taught as a “vital prerequisite for our very existence” (as Hazar Imam has emphasized for over three decades), and
• whether the principle of merit-based admissions with full financial support has been & is today being fully applied.

Respectfully, can these questions and project updates now be shared with the entire Jamat — in alignment with Farmans — so we are fully informed about the present reality and the future of this vital education initiative?

The constitution and Farmans have STILL NOT been given to the entire Jamat by Leaders in control as directed by Hazar Imam - can you now do so & show respect for Hazar Imam and the Jamat


Link to Farman 2013

https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1969 ... 93762?s=46

M. Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

Subject: Sharing the Kampala Didar Guidance – Divine Reminders Directions & blessings for All - not a select few

Dear All, including LIF IIS & Noorani family

Ya Ali Madad.

Attached below is the Farman Mubarak conveyed by Mawlana Shah Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan during the Didar in Kampala, Uganda, on 12 September 2025.

This is Divine guidance — the will of Allah being conveyed through our Imam e Zaman — and therefore is sacred and binding for all of us, leaders and Jamati members alike - Bayah

I wish to highlight two key matters:

1. Powerful reminders to leaders

In these Farmans, Mawlana Shah Rahim Aga Khan reminds us again of guidance already given but not acted upon for decades. These include:

• The centrality of the Constitution and Farmans, which remain withheld from the Jamat despite repeated directives that they must be made available in full.

• The need for genuine unity and cooperation within the Jamat, beyond empty words.

• The call for integrity, honesty, and ethical conduct in leadership, institutions, and business.

• The demand that leaders fulfil set goals and not merely hold positions of authority without accountability.

It is crystal clear that these are not new directions — they are reminders, underscoring that the leadership has failed to actualize and complete the objectives entrusted to them by Hazar Imam including not giving the constitution and Farmans

2. The new guidance for the Jamat - The future is today

At the same time, the Farman contains forward-looking instructions that guide us in the present context:

• To live in balance: faith, family, health, and livelihood.

• To strengthen education, especially for youth, and ensure that every murid has access to the best opportunities.

• To honour women’s participation and contribution in family, community, and public life.

• To remain law-abiding, ethical, and trustworthy in all dealings.

• To be open, inclusive, and welcoming to non-Ismaili family members.

• To embrace environmental responsibility and respond to the realities of climate change.

• To stay connected spiritually through bay’ah, prayer, remembrance of Allah, and regular participation in Jamatkhana.

These teachings and Tawil are not optional. They are Divine guidance conveyed for our time, and they represent continuity with the Farmans of past Imams.

Unfortunately, while Hazar Imam has directed that the Jamat must receive this guidance - farmans/ in full, the leadership has not shared it as they were instructed.

Therefore, I am sharing it here for the benefit of all murids, so that no one is deprived of the light and wisdom our Imam’s is conveying from the will of Allah

Please receive it with humility, reflect deeply on its meaning, Share it with all, and act with sincerity - Niyat - Bayah

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/hbye08m4 ... aq2g8&dl=0

With prayers for unity, peace, and guidance,

Farman Uganda
Mahebub Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

Dear LIF IIS ITREBS and ICAB

We refer to the following letters - emails requesting the authentic verbatim Farmans the constitution and all annotations. We look forward to you doing what Hazar Imam has directed and asked in Farmans

Quote

Ya Ali Madad Chatur and all,

Thank you for your very detailed and well-documented response. Your explanation, the court references, and the historical evidence you’ve shared are invaluable.

I especially appreciate the clarity on Hazar Imam’s own words, “Imam does not edit Farmans, He annotates them”, and on the precedents where leaders’ edits have been proven and corrected.

My concern remains: in the recently circulated Nairobi Farman by the Tarika Board , key phrases we heard are missing. For example:



“I’d like to take one moment to take this in; I am very emotional.”
When He came to the mic a second time: “I was emotional before, but I am more emotional now.”
“We are old friends.”
And, “Our spiritual connection transcends time , space and we’ll always be together
All those who were present in the Didar hall in Nairobi have confirmed these same words.

This last phrase is especially significant. “Time & space” is the correct English expression for something beyond physical limits. Hazar Imam cannot make a mistake by saying “time and place,” yet that is what appears in the circulated version. I and many others distinctly heard time & space.

Further, in the Uganda Farman, the wording “time and place” also appears. This deepens the concern that edits or substitutions may have occurred. Imam does not use incorrect vocabulary, and these discrepancies require clarification.

If the Farman of Kenya is demonstrably edited, how can we fully rely on the Farmans from Paris and Uganda without access to their complete verbatim texts and authentic annotations?

Knowing that Hazar Imam only annotates but never edits strengthens the call for the full, verbatim Farmans with any authentic annotations to be released exactly as delivered.

May this exchange help all of us, leaders and murids alike, work with honesty and reverence so that the Imam’s guidance reaches every heart in its complete and unaltered form.



With gratitude and prayers,

Tazmin



On 21 Sep 2025, at 12:37, M MC <mahebub.chatur@me.com> wrote:

Dear Taz, All Leaders, Jamat, and Noorani Family,

Ya Ali Madad.

I would like to sincerely thank you for sharing your personal knowledge and presence during the Didar in Kenya. You highlighted some of the missing words and sentences in that Farman.

We know historically that Farmans have been edited by leaders. As we are all aware from past evidence, edits and changes are not new and have precedent. Verified copies have been refused by leaders despite repeated requests.

For example, during the Golden Jubilee, a sentence in the Farman was edited out and later reinstated because verbatim copies were circulated by murids.

Similarly, during the Aga Khan copyright lawsuit, allegations were made regarding Mr. Shafik Sachedina claiming that the Imam “thinks in French and speaks in English” and therefore makes mistakes that require editing.

This claim was entirely false.

As confirmed during the court meeting when Hazar Imam attended on 15 October 2010, Hazar Imam stated in the presence of Shafik Sachedina and M. Manji that:

“Imam does not edit Farmans — He annotates them, meaning explains and elucidates.”

The verbatim Farmans, as published in the 2009 Farman book by Nagib Tajdin, remain unchanged. Hazar Imam allowed murids to retain, use, and share the Farman book. [Link to that meeting]

It is clear from the evidence that Farmans have been annotated and explained by the Imam but not edited or altered in content by him.

Leader edits, however, have occurred both in the past and at present. We also know that Farmans, annotations, and even the Constitution have not been released to the Jamat, despite repeated directives from Hazar Imam over decades to provide them to the entire Jamat.

Consequently, it is not surprising that changes and edits have been made by leaders to the Kenya Farman, not by Hazar Imam. I request that leaders provide the full Farmans along with all annotations.

For reference, I am attaching key excerpts from the court case of Shafik Sachedina during cross-examination, which confirm that the allegation regarding the Imam “thinking in French and speaking in English” is false:
• Sachedina #252–#257: Cross-examination confirms he never claimed the Imam makes mistakes requiring edits; rather, he explained that the Imam reviews the material to ensure it reflects his intended message.
• Sachedina #263: Confirms there is no constitutional article or Farman that mandates the Imam must edit Farmans before distribution.
• Sachedina #617–#618: Confirms his statement about the Imam thinking in French and speaking in English, highlighting it was the first time such a claim was formally recorded.

These records can be reviewed in detail here: Heritage Ismaili – Court Hearing Transcripts.

Given this history and the evidence from both past publications and court proceedings, it is crucial that the entire Jamat be provided with the full, authentic Farmans, along with all annotations by the Imam and the full Constitution, in line with Hazar Imam’s directives.

This should include all Farmans from 2009 to the present, including all annotations in Hazar Imam’s handwriting.

Providing these materials to the Jamat is not merely a request by Hazar Imam; it reflects the conveying of the divine will of Allah, as recognized and affirmed by IIS on 9 August 2025. Ensuring access to verbatim Farmans, explanations, and the Constitution is essential and to be obeyed by all murids, including leaders.

I request again that this matter regarding the Imam’s Farmans be addressed promptly and comprehensively so that all murids have access to the original, authentic teachings and guidance of Hazar Imam.

⸻

See below full excerpts from court proceedings:

Meeting on 15 October 2010: Hazar Imam confirmed in the presence of Shafik Sachedina and M. Manji that “Imam does not edit Farmans - He annotates them - meaning explains and elucidates.”

They deleted the famous sentence from the GJ Farman in London (I was present) and had to reinstate it because recorded copies were circulated by murids. The verbatim Farmans are also in the Farman book published by Nagib, which Imam allowed all who had to retain, use, and share since 15 October 2010. Which Murids have and do.

More details are in my book: Aga Khan Copyright Lawsuit – Lifting the Veil

https://www.icloud.com/iclouddrive/014O ... y_2019fnl_

⸻

Court Discovery – Cross Examination

Does Imam Think in French and Speak in English?
Mr. Sachedina admits twice to saying that the Imam thinks in French and speaks in English.

[Note: Extracts of Federal Court Transcripts of Cross-Examinations held August 2010 for Summary Judgement Motions in the Aga Khan Copyright Lawsuit]
• Sections starting with N. Tajdin #… – Nagib Tajdin answers
• Sections starting with Jiwa #… – Alnaz Jiwa answers
• Sections starting with Sachedina #… – Shafik Sachedina answers
• Sections starting with Bhaloo #… – Aziz Bhaloo answers

Sachedina #252–#257:
Cross-Examination by Mr. Jiwa:
Q. And you told Mr. Tajdin that Imam ‘thinks in French, speaks in English, and makes mistakes, so we edit them, we correct them’?
A. That’s his words, not mine.
Q. And you never said that?
A. I didn’t say about mistakes. What I said was, and I want to really put it on properly, is that Imam himself had told me that when he makes farmans, he makes extempore farmans. And extempore farmans, when he makes them, he thinks in French, and the farmans are made in English. And it is absolutely correct in my view that farmans of any – from my point of view any Imam from that point of view, the Imam has his right to review those farmans because the spoken word and then text have to be compared and be satisfied that that is what he wished to be released.
Q. Would you agree with me that that’s your opinion?
A. No. It is what the Imam has told me personally.
Q. That he what?
A. That he has made – it’s a long tradition absolutely going back through many, many years.
Q. When you say ‘many years,’ so Sultan also had the same policy as well?
A. I’m not – I’m talking about this Imam. I wasn’t present with the 48th Imam. I was not working for him. But I can only tell you that Imam reviews this material himself for the last many, many years since I have been working, and he releases it only when he is satisfied with it.
Q. Now, do you have any, either a farman – right? – or an article in the Constitution that says that the Imam edits farmans or has to edit farmans or has to approve farmans before they are released for distribution?
A. There’s a very clear constitutional mandate. If you read article – the only people that are authorized to do that are constitutional board. If you look at the article, very clearly article 14 of the Constitution, 14.1(c) clearly says that it is only the Imam who – it’s very clear on – 14.1 article C is absolutely clear.

Sachedina #263:
Cross-Examination by Mr. Jiwa:
Q. Is there any article in the Constitution or is there any farman that says before any farman that has been made by the Imam, before it is distributed to the jamats, has to be edited and approved by the Imam?
A. Not in the way that you describe.

Sachedina #617–#618:
Cross-Examination by Mr. Tajdin:
Q. Okay, that’s fine. I’m referring to tab D of – 3(d) – now you have to bear with me. It’s the first time that I am doing an examination. And Shafik, honestly, I think in French, I speak in English.
A. Yes.
Q. So sometimes –
A. Thank you very much. I am grateful. That is first time on record somebody can say that. I thought I was the only one saying that.
MR. GRAY: That’s okay. I think probably it’s the first time Mr. Sachedina has been examined.

http://heritage.ismaili.net/node/30367

M Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

What is the difference between annotation and editing

Further letter and request to LIF ICAB ITREB IIS

“ Dear Taz and All,

Thank you for sharing the dictionary definition of editing and annotating Farmāns.
You are right — the Imam annotates but never edits the Farmāns he has conveyed, for they are Allah’s Will.
Clarification on Farmān vs. Annotation / Interpretation

What a Farmān is:
A Farmān (the Imam’s pronouncement) expresses the Noor of the Imam and is a manifestation of Divine guidance conveyed through him. When Mawlana Hazar Imam gives a Farmān, it carries the Imam’s spiritual authority — Allah’s Will — and purpose for the Jamāt.

A Farmān is not & cannot be “edited”:
Because a Farmān is the Imam’s Noor — a transmission of Divine Will as conveyed by the Imam — it cannot legitimately be edited, redacted, or altered by anyone after it has been given. Any change to the content, meaning, or force of a Farmān can only occur if the Imam himself gives a later Farmān that supersedes or replaces the earlier one.

What the Imam does, and what leaders may do:
Community leaders, institutions, or scholars may annotate, elucidate, explain, interpret, or apply a Farmān for practical guidance. These annotations and interpretations are not the editing of Farmāns; rather, they are secondary explanations intended to help the Jamāt understand or implement the Imam’s guidance. Such explanations do not carry the same sacred authority as the Imam’s own Farmān and must never be presented as replacements or as edited versions of it.

Constitutional / canonical point (practical implication):
Where the Imam’s Farmān and a later statement from the Imam differ, the later Farmān — being the Imam’s own further transmission of Noor — supersedes earlier guidance. Conversely, a leader’s annotation or institutional interpretation cannot nullify or “edit out” the Imam’s Farmān; it can only clarify or recommend application consistent with the Farmān

Hazar Imam has also clarified this in the Ismaili Constitution, - an ketet Farman supersedes an earlier Farman - and it will again be made explicit in the amended Constitution announced on 11 February 2025 (currently still withheld).

M Chatur

On 21 Sep 2025, at 10:03, taz 1107 <tazmin1107@gmail.com> wrote:

Thank you

From Google translation :

To edit means to change, cut, rewrite, or correct what was originally said.
An editor might remove sentences, reword phrases, or even add or rearrange ideas.

To annotate means to add explanations, clarifications, or supplementary notes, while leaving the original words intact.
Think of a teacher who gives a talk, and later adds footnotes, context, or extra commentary in the margin—without altering the talk itself.

So when Hazar Imam says “I do not edit Farmans, I annotate them,” it means:

The Farman as spoken remains verbatim and unaltered.
Imam may add explanations, elaborations, or spiritual clarifications afterwards (for example, written notes,

[mahebubchatur]

Dear All, including members of the Noorani family,

The attached article in the Kenyan press exposes serious realities within our institutions — highlighting nepotism, exclusion, and oppressive leadership practices that contradict the values of fairness, meritocracy, and dignity which the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) is meant to uphold.

These revelations mirror many long-standing concerns from within our community:

Constitutions withheld for decades from Jamats, despite reminder from Hazar Imam - last on 18 March 2025

No transparency or accountability in governance or finances.

Ongoing denial of access to our Imam during Didar in Kenya.

Leadership positions monopolized by a small circle of families, including decades-long concentration of power with the same individuals.

Absence of published names, contacts, and roles of executive boards both in Kenya and globally.

The whistleblowers in this report describe a culture of fear, disempowerment, and toxic management that undermines trust in AKDN’s mission. Unless addressed through independent, transparent review and reform, the credibility and moral standing of our institutions are at grave risk.

I again request urgent intervention by all true Leaders and Murids including the Noorani family so that:

Constitutions, governance structures, and financial reports are made accessible to all the Jamat.

Leadership appointments and promotions are transparent, competitive, and based on merit as Imam has directed .

All Communities are enabled and empowered, not controlled directed or silenced.

A culture of pluralism accountability and respect is restored, in line with the Farmans of our Imam and the constitution- a Farman

This is not only a matter of internal grievance but one of integrity and justice for a constitutional entity of the community under the constitution entrusted with resources for the primary benefit of the whole community first !!!!

Link

https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1971 ... hqfO552USg
Ya Ali Madad,

Mahebub Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

Letter and requests

Dear All, LIF & including Noorani Family

The United Kingdom Council President and Council leaders have recently launched a fundraising appeal, encouraging members of the Jamat to donate to three entities:

1. CFR (UK) – a registered charity funding community programmes (youth camps, education, mentoring, poverty elimination, cultural initiatives, etc.).

2. Jamati Fund (JF) – a discretionary fund for dini matters, overseen by the National Council, at its discretion and based on “guidance.”

3. FOCUS – a registered charity for emergency relief and resettlement, including support for newly arrived murids in Europe.

This appeal is framed around the Council’s stated annual operating cost of £4m, and donors are reminded of the tax benefits available when giving to CFR (UK) and FOCUS. - No accounts and accountability provided despite requests

However, these new requests raise important constitutional and governance issues (based on Farmans and the constitution still witheld)

• Under Farmans which include the Ismaili Constitution, the Jamat’s financial obligation is fulfilled by Dasond (tithes) and offerings made to the Imam of the Time, which the Imam has confirmed are returned 100% — and sometimes more 150% — for the benefit of the Jamat and its institutions.

These additional appeals do not direct funds to the Imam, but rather to entities controlled by the Leaders in control for decades

• Leaders continue to withhold the Constitution itself, together with the Farmans, and do not provide open disclosure to the Jamat about governance structures, decision-making, or executive remuneration of these entities. Not the annual budgets and spent - outcomes !!!

• While some statutory accounts are available (because CFR and FOCUS are registered charities), the wider financial picture — including Jamati Fund & resources use & deployment — is opaque.

• Positions within these entities and councils remain tightly controlled by the same leadership circles, without independent oversight or community accountability.

At a time when very substantial sums have already been allocated to institutions (including £100 million recently for global Syria initiatives), the question arises:

Why are additional donations now being solicited from the Jamat in the UK, outside of the Imam’s central framework, and without full transparency or accountability to the community nor enabling and empowering but centralised control

I therefore encourage you to read the leaders own fundraising appeal in full, reproduced below, and reflect carefully on its motivations.

Each murid must make their own informed judgment about whether such additional donations are approved and authorised by Hazar Imam - no Farman - and are they necessary, appropriate, and consistent with Hazar Imam’s Farmans and the constitution they still withold

With best wishes,

Attachment below : Full Text of the UK National Council Fundraising Appeal (as circulated on Ismaili TV, the Ismaili App, and social media) - and link


They claim this is according to Hazar Imam’s guidance but no Farman given nor is the constitution

“ …We are guided by Mawlana Hazar Imam on how these funds are utilised. Any contributions will be channelled towards dini matters exclusively…”

INTRODUCTION

The National Council for the UK Jurisdiction Jamat has a clear vision, inspired by the guidance of Mawlana Hazar Imam:

A Jamat with faith and ethics, united and stable, that can uplift humankind today and for generations to come.

From poverty and climate change to mental health and challenges with youth engagement – many obstacles stand in the way of our ability to fulfil our vision and our ambition for our Jamat to reach their fullest potential. Working together, we can create a different future. One where every member of our Jamat, no matter their age, background or country of origin, is settled, well educated, economically secure and feel a sense of belonging by being part of our very special community. The National Council does this by running impactful programmes such Baitul Ilms and Circle Clubs, health initiatives, 121 mentoring, case management for those facing legal or financial challenges, youth camps and of course, creating serene, safe spaces for us to practice our faith together.

Delivering all of this costs £4m per year. We know that many of you want to contribute to enabling our community to thrive and we cannot do what we do without your generous support.

Become a Sponsor today and build a brighter future for our sisters and brothers…today and for generations.



HOW CAN I GIVE?

There are 3 entities that help us to do the work we do:

1. CFR (UK)

CFR (UK) is a UK registered charity that ensures that every member of our UK Jurisdiction Jamat has the opportunity for a good quality of life. Every Jamati initiative is funded by CFR (UK), including youth camps and circle clubs, poverty elimination, external relations and arts & culture. It is the vehicle that supports our community to learn, grow and thrive together.

To give to CFR (UK), click below and select CFR (UK).

Give to CFR (UK)

Our promise to our CFR (UK) Sponsors:

– We will tell you how you are helping to change lives…today and for generations

– Your contributions to CFR (UK) make it possible for us to run the programmes and services that keep our community united and uplifted. From keeping our elderly members engaged, to investing in ongoing religious education, mentoring and offering one-to-one financial and legal counsel, we will tell you how the money you have given is helping us to fulfil our Imam’s vision.

– We will follow the highest standard within fundraising. CFR (UK) is a registered charity in the UK. We are audited by the Charity Commission and bound by their standards and codes of practice. We promise to be open, honest and transparent.

– We will thank you personally. When you give to us, whatever the size of your donation, we will thank you personally.

2. JAMATI FUND (JF)

The Jamati Fund (JF) is dedicated to all dini matters for the community. Giving to this entity is discreet and deployment of JF resources is at the discretion of the National Council, based on the guidance of Mawlana Hazar Imam. Through this entity, we support the Jamat to fulfil their religious aspirations, delivering our faith-based practises in spaces that connect us spiritually.

To give to the Jamati Fund, click below and select Jamati Fund.

Give to the JF

Our promise to our JF Sponsors:

– When you give to the JF, you are giving anonymously to an entity that is focused entirely on the spiritual wellbeing of the Jamat. We are guided by Mawlana Hazar Imam on how these funds are utilised. Any contributions will be channelled towards dini matters exclusively.

3. FOCUS

A registered charity, FOCUS operates in Central and South Asia, Europe and North America to support emergency relief, principally in the developing world. The organisation serves people in need by reducing their dependence on humanitarian aid and facilitating their transition to sustainable, self-reliant and long-term development. FOCUS attends to migration issues like those our jurisdiction Jamat is facing in Europe. It is this entity which supports all settlement efforts for our newly arrived murids, a segment of the Jamat which is growing at pace and experiencing the lowest quality of life.

Give to FOCUS today


THE TRADITION OF GENEROSITY

“Generosity is the disposition of the dwellers of Paradise.” – Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)

The tradition of generosity is a foundational premise within Islam. It is an expression of the principles of compassion and sharing which can strengthen the welfare of individuals, communities and societies at large. Offering financial contributions to the entities that enable the improvement of the Jamat’s quality of life and spiritual growth is a meaningful expression of these ideals.

“The Islamic ethic is that if God has given you the capacity or good fortune to be a privileged individual in society, you have a moral responsibility to society.” – Mawlana Hazar Imam, February 2013

That moral responsibility can manifest in many ways. Maybe it’s through volunteering your time or skills or simply being kind to strangers you meet in your day-to-day life, you can also make a difference to the lives of others by contributing to the programmes that offer our sisters and brothers support, care, guidance and hope.



FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are the different entities I can give to?

There are 3 entities through which we deliver the programmes and initiatives for the UK Jurisdiction Jamat. They are:

– CFR (UK)

– Jamati Fund (JF)

– FOCUS

Can I choose which entity I want to give to?

Yes, you can choose which entity you would like to support.

– To give to CFR (UK), click here and select CFR (UK)

– To give to JF, click here and select Jamati Fund

– To give to FOCUS, click here

What does CFR (UK) do?

CFR (UK) is a UK registered charity that ensures that every member of our UK Jurisdiction Jamat has the opportunity for a good quality of life. Every Jamati initiative is funded by CFR (UK), including youth camps and circle clubs, poverty elimination, external relations and arts & culture. It is the vehicle that supports our community to learn, grow and thrive together.

What does the JF do?

The Jamati Fund (JF) is dedicated to all dini matters for the community. Giving to this entity is discreet and deployment of JF resources is at the discretion of the National Council, based on the guidance of Mawlana Hazar Imam. Through this entity, we support the Jamat to fulfil their religious aspirations, delivering our faith-based practises in spaces that connect us spiritually.

What does FOCUS do for the UK Jurisdiction Jamat?

FOCUS attends to migration issues like those our jurisdiction Jamat is facing in Europe. It is this entity which supports all settlement efforts for our newly arrived murids, a segment of the Jamat which is growing at pace and experiencing the lowest quality of life.

Do I get tax benefits when I donate?

Donations by individuals to registered charities are tax free. When you give to CFR (UK) or FOCUS which are registered charities, you can donate through Gift Aid. When you do this, charities can claim an extra 25p for every £1 you donate. Remember, if you choose to give to the JF, there is no tax relief as the JF is not a registered charity.

Who decides where my donation will be spent?

By distinguishing between the 3 entities, we can give our Jamat some choice as to where they would like their contributions to be focused.

If you give to CFR (UK), you are helping to fund the many programmes that enable our sisters and brothers to have a good quality of life, access to health, legal and financial advice, initiatives that engage our youth, mentoring for families who need support and more. As a Sponsor, you will receive information on how your money has been spent in the year.

If you choose to support the JF, this is a dedicated fund allocated wholly to the dini matters of the Jamat. Giving to this entity is discreet and deployment of JF resources is at the discretion of the National Council, based on the guidance of Mawlana Hazar Imam.

By donating to FOCUS, you are helping to address migration issues being faced by our Jamat in Europe. It is this entity which supports all settlement efforts for our newly arrived murids, a rapidly growing segment of our jurisdiction Jamat.

Link

https://the.ismaili/gb/en/news/make-dif ... enerations


Mahebub Chatur


Link to full appeal for more donations-funds from Jamat https://the.ismaili/gb/en/news/make-dif ... enerations

M Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

A further letter to LIF Leaders and All from Karima - Coventry UK


Dear All,

Ya Ali Madad.

I fully agree with the questions and concerns expressed by Mr. Chatur. In addition, I wish to highlight that the current fundraising appeal by the UK Council leaders raises very serious issues.

On the one hand, the leaders now claim they are “inspired by guidance” from the Imam to raise further funds for three specific entities, which remain under their management and control.

Yet, at the same time, they have failed to provide the community with the constitutional documents or proper accountability for these funds.

For example:
• The new DINI fund is said to be a religious fund, yet no governing documents accounts or budgets have been shared.
• The DFD Fund is said to be managed entirely at their discretion, without any transparency or reporting.

This lack of accountability mirrors their actions in other areas.

The closure of the Coventry Jamatkhana was carried out without proper authority, with claims of Farmans that have never been produced.

In that case too the same leaders did not tell the truth to the Jamat — and today, in this new appeal, the same !

If the leaders are truly acting on new or latest guidance, then the Jamat is entitled to see the actual authentic text of that Farman - guidance, specifically authorising them to collect additional funds for these three entities from the Jamat

Without such evidence, the claims cannot be accepted as credible or true

Charity begins at home: reopening the Jamatkhanas they closed dishonestly would be a far greater act of service to the Jamat, especially for our senior members, rather than demanding further donations under questionable claims of “inspired” by Farmans which they withold !!!

Can they including AKDN AKF provide all the farmans and the full constitution and reopen the coventry Jamat Khanna too !

Karima H


On Thu, 25 Sep 2025 at 10:14 pm, Mahebub Chatur <mahebubchatur@gmail.com> wrote:

[mahebubchatur]

A further letter to LIF Leaders and All from Karima - Coventry UK


Dear All,

Ya Ali Madad.

I fully agree with the questions and concerns expressed by Mr. Chatur. In addition, I wish to highlight that the current fundraising appeal by the UK Council leaders raises very serious issues.

On the one hand, the leaders now claim they are “inspired by guidance” from the Imam to raise further funds for three specific entities, which remain under their management and control.

Yet, at the same time, they have failed to provide the community with the constitutional documents or proper accountability for these funds.

For example:
• The new DINI fund is said to be a religious fund, yet no governing documents accounts or budgets have been shared.
• The DFD Fund is said to be managed entirely at their discretion, without any transparency or reporting.

This lack of accountability mirrors their actions in other areas.

The closure of the Coventry Jamatkhana was carried out without proper authority, with claims of Farmans that have never been produced.

In that case too the same leaders did not tell the truth to the Jamat — and today, in this new appeal, the same !

If the leaders are truly acting on new or latest guidance, then the Jamat is entitled to see the actual authentic text of that Farman - guidance, specifically authorising them to collect additional funds for these three entities from the Jamat

Without such evidence, the claims cannot be accepted as credible or true

Charity begins at home: reopening the Jamatkhanas they closed dishonestly would be a far greater act of service to the Jamat, especially for our senior members, rather than demanding further donations under questionable claims of “inspired” by Farmans which they withold !!!

Can they including AKDN AKF provide all the farmans and the full constitution and reopen the coventry Jamat Khanna too !

Karima H


On Thu, 25 Sep 2025 at 10:14 pm, Mahebub Chatur <mahebubchatur@gmail.com> wrote:

Thank you for sharing Karima.

There can be no question that if Leaders are truly respecting Farmans - as they claim - in this THEIR - appeal then they would

1. Provide copies of all the Farmans and the annotations
2. Provide a copy of the full constitution
3. Reopen the Coventry Jamat Khanna
4. Reopen the versova Jamat Khanna
5. Provide full support to the Dholka Jamat and Jamat Khanna
6. Provide accounts budgets and reports to the Jamat
7. Provide a list of all who are in fact in executive positions and who in fact control the entities & funds resources including Farmans
8. Teach pluralism and our faith as IIS started on 9 August 2025
9. Respond to all the pending requesting include after 4 Feb 2025
10. Provide end of term reports
11. Not stop Jamat from Didar - highest worship and prayers to Hazar Imam

Leaders are not - Do you agree by not doing do you are disrespecting our faith Farmans Imam and Jamat ?

Mahebub Chatur


On Fri, 26 Sep 2025 at 03:34, Karima Lalji <laljikarima@gmail.com> wrote:

[mahebubchatur]

Dear All including LIF IIS AKDN

Report: UK PM Starmer’s Pride in Place Plan Hands Power Back to Communities by Enabling and Empowering Local People

“Empowering Communities: Starmer’s £5bn Renewal Drive Resonates with Aga Khan’s Vision & pluralism

Headline: £5 billion “Pride in Place” fund signals Labour’s shift to community-led renewal

Byline: By M Chatur

⸻

In his most recent address, today by Prime Minister Keir Starmer unveiled one of the government’s most ambitious efforts to decentralise power in decades. Hazar Imam has been advocating this and pluralism for over 25 years in our community institutions and Leaders including GCP

“Government funding of £5 billion will be used to revive high streets, parks and public spaces.
The aim is to support people across 339 neighbourhoods to lead the renewal in their local areas as part of the Government’s new Pride in Place programme.
As part of the fund, 169 areas will receive £2 million every year for a decade to give them certainty when planning for the future, totalling £3.5 billion.”

The emphasis is clear: renewal must be led by local people, not imposed by Westminster. Neighbourhoods will set their own priorities, manage their own programmes, and take ownership of their community’s future.

This marks a deliberate step away from the centralised, top-down model of governance and toward what Starmer has called a working people’s government — one that empowers both the disadvantaged and the middle class to shape their environment and opportunities.

The plan’s design — multi-year certainty, locally managed boards, and direct funding to neighbourhoods — mirrors principles long advocated in pluralist philosophy. It reflects the conviction that communities thrive when given both the capacity and responsibility to manage their own programmes, budgets, and development.

For more than four decades, His Highness the Aga Khan has emphasised pluralism as a holistic framework for social progress. Not as an add-on to diversity or inclusion, but as a way of life: a recognition that societies are strongest when they embrace difference, empower communities, and enable citizens to become active stewards of their own well-being and quality of life.

Starmer’s Pride in Place programme echoes that vision. By dispersing power, encouraging community agency, and ensuring that decisions are not made in a rigid pyramid but closer to the ground where people live, it resonates directly with the principles of pluralism and community empowerment.

If fully realised, the policy could transform how government works with its citizens — shifting from being a manager of programmes to being an enabler of communities. This is not just administrative reform; it is a philosophical shift that acknowledges what pluralist thinkers and leaders like the Aga Khan have been advocating for decades: that true progress comes when power is shared, communities are trusted, and people themselves become the authors of Sharing their future today

Link
Source: Lancashire Telegraph
https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/n ... ?ref=yahoo

M Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

Subject: Passing of Anil Ishani



Dear All including LIF & Noorani family

It is to be noted with respect that Anil Ishani, who had been a long-standing member of the Ismaili community’s leadership since the late 1970s, served as a practicing lawyer, and was a member of the Leaders International Forum (LIF), has passed away in Kenya.

Mr. Ishani was involved in the Ismaili Constitution Review Committee (CRC) formed in March 1984, which worked on the drafting, alongside M. Keshavjee, and the ordaining of the Constitution of the Shi’a Imami Ismaili Muslims by Mawlana Hazar Imam in 1986. The Committee’s work included extensive consultations with Jamati leaders and members of the Imam’s secretariat at Aiglemont, of which he was also a part. This effort culminated in the historic Constitution ordaining ceremony on December 13, 1986, in Geneva.

In addition to his role in the CRC, Mr. Ishani was a member of the LIF board and remained part of the core leadership circle of the community for several decades, maintaining active involvement in the background alongside the same group of leaders who continue in leadership positions today. His contributions within LIF, including guidance and participation in discussions on community matters, were part of his ongoing engagement in leadership responsibilities.

The Ismaili Constitution, as ordained in 1986, continues to guide the governance of the Jamat worldwide.

It was amended on 11 February 2025, and despite reminders, certain documents, including the Constitution and Farmans, remain withheld by the current custodians and leaders. https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1874 ... 53355?s=46

This note is shared with all members of the Leaders International Forum, and others, to report Mr. Ishani’s passing for the record, acknowledging his long-term involvement and role in the institutional history of the Jamat. May he receive his just reward in the hereafter from Mawlana Hazar Imam, based on what he contributed as a leader and member of the community for so many decades.

[mahebubchatur]

Dear All LIF IIS AKDN & Noorani family

Ya Ali Madad,

Further evidence, and urgent appeal regarding the unlawful closure of the Versova Jamatkhana in Mumbai without authority from Mawlana Hazar Imam. (Also Coventry Dholka & others)

On a Facebook Live broadcast, Mr. Nizar Daredia (resident of London, currently in Mumbai) provides clear evidence & testimony, naming individuals, institutions, and councils, and giving contact details. Link below

His evidence made publicly and on record, includes also the following:

1. Closure of Versova Jamatkhana by Leaders with no Farman

• The Jamatkhana has been closed without the authority - Farman of Mawlana Hazar Imam. No survey. Now they claim they will served ???!!!!

• Mukhi Saheb of Versova, Mr. Hashim Shroff has confirmed that murids - members in the area should directly contact him for help.

He has shared his phone number publicly and offered to cover travel costs to ensure members are not excluded & abandoned. The council are not helping

2. Neglect of Vulnerable members Murids of the community

• Two named individuals in great need recently passed away without proper support from the councils.

• The Pune Council and South Mumbai Council refused to assist, even withdrawing critical rent support from one Murid he has named suffering from kidney disease. In his final days, he had to depend on donors and private assistance simply to die with dignity.

3. Failure of Council Leaders

• Mr. Daredia has directly named the South Mumbai Council President, Mr. Nazim Hamid as making repeated false blatant excuses (e.g., claiming “surveys” are needed, or citing “upcoming events” such as the birthday of Mawlana Hazar Imam).

• The truth, as Mr. Daredia and the Mukhi Saheb have both made clear, is that the Jamatkhana has been closed, and possibly sold, and the leaders are avoiding accountability and disrespecting the Jamat the Mukhi and Hazar Imam

This is not speculation. These are named and evidenced facts, given openly in public by named individuals, and therefore stand as evidence of Leaders intentional failure, neglect, and dishonesty towards the Jamat they claim and press to support as one Jamat

The culture & pattern here reflects wider concerns across the Jamat worldwide:

• Farmans and the Ismaili Constitution are withheld.

• Vulnerable murids are neglected.

• Decisions are made without authority from the Imam.

• Leadership offers only excuses instead of truth.

Link to pending list below

For this reason, this letter is not only an evidence record but also an appeal to all leaders:

• To the Leaders International Forum (LIF).

• To the Noorani family of Mawlana Hazar Imam.

• To the Presidents, Mukhis, Kamadias, and Councils across India and beyond.

We ask you ALL to act and intervene immediately:

• Restore the Versova Jamatkhana to the Jamat. Other Jamat Khannas

• Ensure dignity, support, and compassion for vulnerable members in line with the Imam’s Farmans.

• End the pattern of excuses, secrecy, and neglect.

We also appeal to members of the Jamat in Mumbai & Global :

• Contact your Mukhi Sahebs for help directly.

• Do not be silenced or misled by excuses.

• Stand together as one Jamat to ensure that Jamatkhanas remain open, accessible, and guided only by the Farmans& authority of Mawlana Hazar Imam.

This situation is a grave breach of Farmans Bayah-trust, accountability, and responsibility.

This requires honesty, courage, and immediate corrective action in accordance with the directions Farmans of Imam including the constitution still witheld

Video broadcast by Nizar from Mumbai

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Cdf2Mciid/


List of pending items to LIF

viewtopic.php?p=74511#p74511


Ya Ali Madad,

M Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

Dear All, including LIF Huzur IIS Noorani family

Aga Khan Foundation - TheIsmaili- has shared the following statement after its participation at the United Nations General Assembly:

“AKF was proud to participate in the @UN General Assembly last week, where several leaders engaged with partners on shared priorities, including nutrition, climate resilience, and education… For nearly 60 years, AKF has championed community-led solutions to complex development issues, and we are grateful to the many partners who stand with us as we build a future where we all thrive together.”

In response, I share the following tweet:

“#AgaKhan #Ismaili For 60 yrs @akfglobal claims ‘community-led development’. Yet requests for transparency—Farmans, Ismaili Constitution & list of villages truly empowered—still unanswered. @UN @SF4Nutrition @GPforEducation @EnergyAlliance @WorldBank @RockefellerFdn”

These reflect not only my concern, but a broader and persistent reality: repeated requests by members of the Jamat for transparency and disclosure have gone annd still remain unanswered.

Despite Hazar Imam’s - His Highness the Aga Khan’s - explicit guidance - Farmans on openness, accountability, and responsible governance, leaders continue to deliberately withhold eg the Ismaili Constitution and the Farmans from the Jamat, as well as specific information about which villages have truly been enabled through “community-led” development today after 60 years claimed ?

Equally concerning is the lack of transparency regarding the executive boards and officers of each entity, including the Aga Khan Foundation, the Aga Khan Development Network, and the Ismaili Imamat Foundation in Portugal.

While names of certain same group of individuals- leaders appear through media reports or during public visits—such as the recent official engagements in Cairo East Africa and Paris—there remains no open systematic disclosure of the individuals in fact controlling the day to day executive governance and eg filtering communications to and from Imam

When AKF asserts before the United Nations and its partners that it has pursued “community-led development” for 60 years, it is only fair and just to provide verifiable evidence: which communities, which villages, and what measurable empowerment has been achieved?

Without such disclosure, the claim are rhetoric intended to secure funding and partnerships, rather than a faithful upholding f Farmans and Ismaili Constitution-

The Jamat has a right to proof of empowerment participation, inclusivity, and accountability.

The Jamat, deserves no less—especially when the leaders represent and the work is carried out in the name of the Imam and the community.

It is in this spirit of constructive engagement, consistent with Mawlana Hazar Imam’s directions, that I once again call upon the leaders to:
1. Release the Ismaili Constitution and Farmans to the Jamat.
2. Publish a clear record of ALL entities, of the community including their executive non executive de facto boards, officers - the real decision makers
3. Provide verifiable data and list of every Ismaili and other villages and communities that have been enabled to truly leading and managing their own development.

Sixty years of claims now demand sixty years of evidence - as Imam says it is words backed with actions and being the examples to uphold and share including Farmans & constitution

Awaiting a substantive response - list of pending requests

viewtopic.php?p=74511#p74511

Respectfully,
M Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

Dear All – LIF, AKDN, AKF, IIS, Huzur, The Ismaili, Nation Media and Members of the Noorani Family,

I write with deep concern regarding the recent statement by the Leaders - media team that “The Ismaili is the sole official source of information for our community, available on all major digital platforms. Providing reliable and accurate information about and for our community”

This statement by the Leaders is at best misleading and incomplete. The Ismaili is not and cannot be described as independent or reliable impartial news for the community. Jamat.

Controlled by the same group, For decades, this media team has been controlled by the same group of leaders who have consistently withheld eg the Ismaili Constitution and the Farmans of Mawlana Hazar Imam. These are the very foundations of our faith and communal governance, yet they have been denied to the Jamat despite Imam’s explicit guidance and reminders to share them with the entire Jamat.

Equally, The Ismaili has ignored legitimate questions raised by murids. It refuses to cover issues of genuine concern and the Murids perspectives & publishes only selective content designed to promote what leadership wishes to highlight. Such an approach silences critical voices and reduces media to public relations rather than truth-seeking.

This is directly contrary to Mawlana Hazar Imam’s guidance and vision for media of a reliable independent media

In his address to the International Press Institute in Nairobi (1979), he affirmed:

“Without reliable information the exercise of free choice is illusory. The press must be independent, it must present facts truthfully and in a balanced way, and it must give expression to differing views.”

These words remain as relevant today as they were then. Without independence, balance, and pluralism of voices, news becomes propaganda.

Mawlana Hazar Imam has also stressed that pluralism is no longer a luxury, it is a survival strategy (Global Centre for Pluralism, 2006). This applies not only to nations but also to our own community institutions. A pluralistic media must give voice to multiple perspectives, include dissenting or questioning voices, and represent the lived realities of all Jamats. When The Ismaili suppresses concerns and refuses to acknowledge questions, it violates the very ethic of pluralism that Imam has taught us is central to our survival and flourishing.

Today, authentic Ismaili news and dialogue are found not through this controlled outlet, but through citizens’ voices on social media, independent forums, and community-led platforms—where evidence is shared and all perspectives are heard.

For example, here is a link to a list of critical questions of the other side - community that The Ismaili has never addressed:

viewtopic.php?p=74555#p74555

Until the Constitution and Farmans are shared as directed by Mawlana Hazar Imam, and until The Ismaili opens itself to independent all sides of news independent accountability and pluralism, it cannot be called independent or reliable.

By calling yourself official or independent does not make you independent

It remains a selective communications arm of leadership—not a true reflection of the Jamat or of Imam’s guidance.

In the spirit of humility and truth, I urge our institutions and all leaders to reflect on these concerns, to align our media with the Imam’s guidance, and to restore trust by ensuring transparency, accountability, and pluralism in the information given to the Jamat.

Awaiting a response and for all the news both sides are fairly impartially and independent and pluralistically reported

My tweet

https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1973 ... hqfO552USg

With respect

M Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

Dear LIF IIS TheIsmaili AKDN and all including Noorani family

Memvers of the Jamat travelled to Paris and attended the horse races at Longchamp, where Mawlana Hazar Imam’s horses were also taking part.

Members of the Jamat have kindly shared the attached pictures and videos as Imam wishes us to share - TheIsmaili media have not -

Princess Zahra Aga Khan and her children, attended & who were seen enjoying the event with warmth and grace — including the winning moment of Hazar Imam’s horse.

The clips shared by Jamati members reflect a natural and respectful atmosphere, with the Jamat and Princess Zahra’s family moving freely, without barriers or visible security, simply appreciating the occasion.

The Jamat maintained beautiful decorum and love with respect

This is a further reminder to Leaders, that our Jamat everywhere have always conducted themselves with dignity and respect, whether in Paris, Kenya, Mozambique, Bishkek, or Uganda. Leaders have not and obstructed access to members who have come out of Love respect and worship

The Jamat would protect our Imam out of love, devotion, and loyalty. Not cause harm.

It is our sincere request againthat in future visits, all murids — wherever they come from — will be welcomed and not obstructed by Leaders volunteers and or security to be there, to greet, and participate without obstruction or restriction as in the past.

Our faith is built on trust, respect, and unity, and these clips reflect that spirit of love and harmony beautifully. As did those waiting outside in the past

Enjoy and share.
Link

https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1974 ... 69864?s=46

Respectfully,
M Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

Dear all, including all Leaders IIS LIF & Noorani family & Jamat

We are guided by our Mawla to uphold the continuum of all his Farmans. This Farman remains fully binding:

“A brother is the one who truly loves you and shows you the righteous ways. But if one is the son of your father and leads you towards humiliation by guiding you to wrong actions, then he is not your brother. Anyone who teaches truth and leads you to God, truly loves you and indeed is your true brother. The one who directs you towards worldly temptations and therefore makes you forget God, is your enemy and not your brother.”

This reminds us that anyone who withholds Farmans, the Constitution, or the truth about our faith, or who misleads the Jamat, is not truly our brother — biologically or spiritually. He/She is our enemy

We are obligated to follow and uphold Farmans & share the truth, knowledge — & God’s will conveyed through our Hazar Imam, bearer of the Noor

link to the Farman:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AnVDy ... tid=wwXIfr

https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1974 ... 32809?s=46

We are still awaiting a response to the many earlier feedback & requests including for Farmans & Ismaili Constitution still withheld from the community by Leaders in control for many decades - Despite clear directions reminders and Farmans from Hazar Imam

Link to list of requests

viewtopic.php?p=74511#p74511

M Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

Further letter & requests - No response to earlier requests so far

Dear All, including IIS, LIF, ITREBs & all Jamat, & Noorani Family

Ya Ali Madad.

A video message has been released by Al-Karim Alidina (President, Aga Khan Council for USA), Murad Abdullah (Chairman, ITREB USA), and Celina Shariff (Vice-President, Council for USA) on the occasion of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s forthcoming visit to the United States (November 5–10, 2025).

They announce that this will be Mawlana Hazar Imam’s first official visit since His appointment on 4th February 2025, during which the Ismaili Center in Houston will be inaugurated — a Center which, they state, will promote pluralism, dialogue, and service to humanity.

They describe the event as one of “pride and inspiration” for the entire Jamat.

They further explain that Mawlana Hazar Imam will meet members of the Jamat from the Central and Southwestern United States, and that the Imam has advised that Jamati members from other regions should not attend. Yet, no verified written guidance or Farman confirming this instruction has been shared with the Jamat, either in the United States or globally.

The video continues by affirming that the Didar of the Imam-of-the-Time is the highest form of worship — the moment when the Noor of Imamat blesses and unites every murid’s soul beyond space and time. They remind us that this sacred encounter is a time to seek the Imam’s knowledge, wisdom, and Baraka — for both material and spiritual well-being — and that murids should prepare for Didar through prayer to the Imam, humility, forgiveness, and gratitude, attending Jamatkhana regularly and invoking the Name and Nur (Light) of the Imam through Zikr.

While these are noble words that echo the Imam’s timeless guidance, it is deeply concerning that the same leaders and institutions speaking about obedience, humility, pluralism, and gratitude to the Imam continue to withhold His very guidance — the Farmans and the Ismaili Constitution — from the Jamat.

For decades, these have not been made available to murids, despite the Imam’s clear instructions that every murid must have access to His Farmans, and that the Constitution exists for the benefit of the Jamat.

How, then, can murids truly “prepare” for Didar, or live by the Imam’s guidance, when His words and Constitution are still kept from them — by the same leaders who say we must seek and have them?

This contradiction undermines the very values the leaders seek to promote — pluralism, integrity, humility, and service to the truth.

It is not consistent with the Imam’s Farmans, which teach that knowledge must be shared, not controlled; that the Imam’s guidance is for all murids, not for a privileged few; and that obedience to the Imam includes the duty — by these and all leaders — to uphold transparency and open hearts, as they themselves claim.

Therefore, I respectfully call upon the President of the Aga Khan Council for the USA, the Chairman of ITREB USA, the Vice-President of the Council, members of the National Council, the Leaders’ International Forum (LIF), the Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS), and all Leaders to uphold the Imam’s Farmans — His guidance — in full by:
1. Making all Farmans of Mawlana Hazar Imam accessible to every murid, as the Imam has directed;
2. Providing every murid with the full, updated text of the Ismaili Constitution, as their right and duty; and
3. Ensuring that future communications are accompanied by verifiable, written guidance or Farmans, rather than unsubstantiated statements — and by responding to all pending requests.

Only then can all Leaders truly embody what the Imam has called “the spirit of humility before truth,” and make our Jamat’s institutions worthy of His trust and vision.

Video

https://youtu.be/dpZjynnCPrw?si=QrM_LNjOBZuhiiBL

With respect and prayer,

[mahebubchatur]

Dear IIS LIF Councils AKDN Noorani Family & Jamat

Subject: Hazar Imam’s Farman on Accountability — A Call to Honour His Guidance

Dear all,

Ya Ali Madad.

I wish to share a deeply significant Farman of Mawlana Hazar Imam which speaks directly to all who hold positions of responsibility and leadership in our Jamat.

Hazar Imam’s Farman for all Leaders of the Jamat

“Always remember whose needs are being fulfilled. Are they yours or are they the persons you are trying to help? In the third world, where the need is the greatest, many organizations and governments throw in money. I throw in people — and for me the most important word is Accountability.
We must be accountable at all times to the organizations we serve and to the people we serve.”

Hazar Imam’s words say it all: “For me, the most important word is Accountability.”
This is not just a reflection — it is a clear directive to all who serve under the Ismaili Constitution ordained by Hazar Imam. Accountability, in our faith, is a sacred duty. It means transparency, honesty, and full responsibility to the Jamat we are entrusted to serve.
In this spirit, it is now essential that our leaders honour Hazar Imam’s guidance by:
Releasing the Ismaili Constitution, which is the Imam’s own instrument of governance for the Jamat, and belongs to every murid.
Releasing the Farmans, which are the living guidance of the Imam and should be accessible to all members of the Jamat.
Continuing to withhold the Constitution and Farmans contradicts both the letter and the spirit of Hazar Imam’s words — His Farman of Accountability calls for service grounded in openness, trust, and responsibility to the people we serve.
Let us all therefore reaffirm our Bayah - & commitment to upholding and sharing Farmans which include the values of accountability, integrity, and unity — as conveyed by our beloved Imam, who has always divinely guided us toward light, truth inclusion pluralism and one Jamat

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17MFa8 ... tid=wwXIfr

Ya Ali Madad,

M Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

Dear LIF IIS and Councils

A reminder on this Salgirah

Salgirah Mubarak

Devotion and Light - Nur

Today, the Dholka Jamat Khanna stands beautifully adorned — lovingly and devotionally decorated by the Jamat with lights and symbols of the Nur of Hazar Imam, ever present among the murids.

Yet, this small but steadfast Jamat of about 45 members continues to be marginalised by certain leaders who have sought to close their Jamat Khanna. Their efforts have not succeeded only because the Jamat has remained united, insisting that any such action must be guided by a Farman of Hazar Imam.

For 15 years, this Jamat has endured hardship, even pursuing a court case in India to protect their right to worship and serve under the guidance of the Imam. They have also sent a heartfelt appeal to Hazar Imam, though sadly, it has been filtered and withheld by leadership channels so far.

To this day, the leaders have not provided the Jamat with access to Farmans Normal support to this Jamat or even to the Ismaili Constitution — all of which Hazar Imam has explicitly directed in Farmans must be made available to all murids, without exclusion or discrimination.

This situation remains a test of conscience and leaders Bayah and faith.

This Dholka Jamat continues to embody faith, humility, and steadfastness in the face of adversity — a true expression of alignment with the Nur of Hazar Imam that continues to shine through their Love & respect

Dholka Jamat Khanna
- Salgirah Mubarak
- ⁠

https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1977 ... hqfO552USg

-

[mahebubchatur]

Dear All — including LIF, IIS, DJI, Huzur, AKDN & the Noorani Family,

Salgirah Mubarak.

The following is the Birthday greeting to Hazar Imam by AKDN and The Ismaili on X -Twitter

“The leadership and staff of the agencies of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) most warmly wish our Chair, His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, a very happy birthday today, the 12th of October 2025. We express our deep appreciation for his tireless efforts to improve the wellbeing of millions of people around the world.

His Highness assumed leadership of the AKDN when he became the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims on the passing of his father, His Late Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan, in February of this year.”
(By AKDN & The Ismaili)

This message is accompanied by a video clip and narrative, which are attached and summarised below.

⸻

Request for Information

Please provide the pending list of all current leaders serving on each Board and the senior executive officers who manage the resources of each of the constitutional entities of the Jamat — from the top down — including LIF, DJI, Huzur, and the registered entity “Ismaili Imamat.”

Leaders have a legal and moral duty to disclose this information, as required under Farmans, Bay‘ah, and the Ismaili Constitution, and the Jamat has the right to this transparency.

⸻

Summary of the Leaders - AKDN and The Ismaili - Birthday Video for Hazar Imam - link below

The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and The Ismaili have released a professionally produced video conveying birthday greetings to His Highness the Aga Khan from leaders and staff across AKDN agencies.

The narration highlights that His Highness ascended to the role of 49th Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims (not “50th,” as the video states) and embraced this role with compassion, dedication, and service. It describes his legacy as both spiritual and material, reflecting his efforts to improve the quality of life for people globally.

The video emphasizes:
• His century-long legacy of leadership and service rooted in Islamic ethics.
• His guidance as the interpreter of the Ismaili Muslim faith, and his work with world leaders to advance education, social welfare, and poverty alleviation.
• His vision of empathy, commitment, and positive impact across generations.

However, the video does not explicitly mention that the Imam’s role is divinely ordained, nor that he is the bearer of Divine Light (Noor) and conveys the will and guidance of Allah.

These are central aspects of the Imam’s spiritual authority, as confirmed by AKDN through IIS and ITREB.

The narration also refers to the Imamat as an “institution,” without clarifying the very important and critical distinction between:
• The Ismaili Imamat — a legally registered entity with constitutional agreements; and
• The Imam of the Time (Hazar Imam) and his Imamat — the living, divinely ordained bearer of Light and the conveyor of the will of Allah, as clarified more explicitly by IIS and ITREBs since 4 February 2025 (see earlier letters/posts).

In essence, while the video conveys the leadership’s admiration, gratitude, and service, it presents a more public-relations and development-oriented portrayal of the Imam’s guidance, rather than a full reflection of his spiritual authority and divine mandate as Imam of the Time — to continue conveying the will of Allah.

Additionally, the narration refers to a “1400-year legacy,” which is inaccurate, as the Imamat and the Nur of the Imam have been ever-present since before creation.

The links are attached below for your reference and reflection:


https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1977 ... hqfO552USg

https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1906 ... hqfO552USg


With prayers,
Mahebub Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

Dear cc LIF and All including Noorani Family

There is increasing evidence that Farmans from Hazar Imam - His Highness the Aga Khan, including the Constitution, is being withheld deliberately from the Jamat by Leaders - not by Hazar Imam who we know will never withhold divine manifestation of Allah’s Will through Farmans

Farmans are the primary foundation of our faith and Bayah

Hazar Imam has asked for democratic meritocratic and pluralistic leadership. Leaders in control are clearly not eg Withholding Farmans

Our History offers stark lessons for us which Imam reminds us to learn from eg

The Fatimid Empire in Cairo, built by visionary leadership, ultimately fell because integrity was compromised, pluralism was rejected by the elite , and authority was centralized in the hands of a very few.

Those in positions of power became authoritarian, controlling knowledge, decision-making, and the narrative of justice.

The Caliph - Our Imam at the time was forced into exile, pursued and prosecuted, highlighting the need to uphold Farmans

Does not this historical example resonate today.

The principles for leaders emphasized in Farmans by Imam, integrity, pluralism, democracy meritocracy inclusion, and participatory management — are essential safeguards against the same reasons that destroyed societies & empires in the past

The following seven points, drawn from a recent reflection on Leaders integrity, illustrate why we must all uphold & share all Farmans:
1. Integrity is binary — once broken, it’s gone. Mistakes can be forgiven; deliberate breaches of integrity must not
2. Trust is slow to build and instant to lose. Reputation relies on consistent alignment between words and actions.
3. Integrity failure rewrites your story. Once compromised, even genuine efforts are viewed with suspicion.
4. Apologies rarely fix moral breaches. Intentional deception signals negotiable values.
5. Integrity failure creates permanent doubt. Even after reforms, uncertainty persists.
6. In leadership, integrity is the foundation of legitimacy. Without it, loyalty is compliance, not conviction.
7. The paradox of reputation: Integrity can be lost once, but its consequences are enduring.

The damage caused by not sharing Farmans is cumulative.

Just as the Fatimid Empire suffered collapse due to compromised integrity and authoritarian control,

our community today is facing the same risks

Moreover, despite the presence of scholars and the Institute of Ismaili Studies — tasked with educating and guiding leaders — there appears to be no engagement or response from leaders on these critical requests .

The lack of transparency and dialogue undermines Farmans which include pluralism, participation, and not doing so threatens the very ethical foundations of our community & faith

I urge all to take this moment as an opportunity to reaffirm Farmans &

• Ensure full transparency and accessibility of Farmans - guidance and constitution.
• Truly Teach & Encourage pluralism, inclusivity, and participatory governance across all levels
• Uphold integrity in every action, communication, and institutional process within the Jamat

The lessons of history are clear. Not learning from them risks the same.

Responding with courage, honesty, integrity and openness ensures Farmans are upheld shared and goals of pluralism harmony wellbeing and quality of life for all can be achieved , not only for the select same group

The recent Nobel Peace Prize to a Venezuelan champion of democracy underscores a vital lesson: the Prize is not merely an honor bestowed upon an individual, but a global affirmation of the cause of democracy itself. This decision celebrates the courageous struggle against authoritarianism, nepotism, and tyranny

Similarly, Hazar Imam in his Farmans — has advised on upholding pluralism, integrity, transparency and accountability — align with this cause.

In upholding & sharing Farmans we will be blessed by Hazar Imam.

“A brother is the one who truly loves you and shows you the righteous ways. But if one is the son of your father and leads you towards humiliation by guiding you to wrong actions, then he is not your brother. Anyone who teaches truth and leads you to God, truly loves you and indeed is your true brother. The one who directs you towards worldly temptations and therefore makes you forget God, is your enemy and not your brother: Mawla Ali”

Respectfully,

[mahebubchatur]

Dear LIF IIS ITREBS AKDN AKF & All,

Dr. Rahim Somani has been appointed as the new General Manager of the Aga Khan Schools (AKS) globally. Who appointed him and to whom does he report to and names of those in control ?

Dr. Somani is a long-standing leader within the institutions of the Ismaili community and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), having served for over 30 years in senior roles across Aga Khan Education Services, the University of Central Asia, and the University of Northern British Columbia. His extensive experience in education strategy, institutional governance, and finance

As we welcome his new appointment, an important question arises — one that has been at the heart of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s guidance for over three decades:

Will Dr. Somani now prioritise and actualize the Imam’s Farmans on the teaching of Pluralism at all levels — a vital priority for all our schools and institutions?

Dr. Somani’s professional profile attached below, and you may also view the related post here:

Tweet link

https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1977 ... 43671?s=46

With warm regards,

[mahebubchatur]

Dear All including AKDN LIF IIS DJI & Ismaili Imamat - entity -

Aga Khan Foundation USA 2024 Report

Dear All,

I refer to the new 2024 report issued by the Aga Khan Foundation USA (AKF USA).

While the report presents a promotional overview of the Foundation’s global work and includes a brief financial summary, important omissions and inconsistencies raise serious questions about transparency, governance, and non alignment with the guidance of Mawlana Hazar Imam - Farmans & constitution

1. Governance and Management
The Aga Khan Foundation operates under a governance model in which the Board of Directors holds legal strategy responsibilities, but the day-to-day management and operational decisions are fully delegated to the Chief Executive Officer and the executive management teams at both global and national levels.

This structure ensures that His Highness the Aga Khan’s strategic Farmans are implemented through appointed leadership, in accordance with the Ismaili Constitution.

Statements in the report suggesting that the same group of Leaders or the National Committee directly manage the operations are therefore inaccurate. Hazar Imam has said they operate independently as have AKDN and AKU in their reports

2. Missing Core Mandate

The report does not mention a central mandate repeatedly emphasized by Mawlana Hazar Imam, AKDN’s General Manager Michael Kocher, and senior leadership such as Matt Reed — namely, that AKF’s purpose is to empower local communities to become masters of their own development programs and resources. Instead, the report focuses on centralized initiatives and selective partnerships, omitting the crucial mandate of local capacity-building and empowerment

3. Absence of teaching of Pluralism

Pluralism, a defining pillar of Hazar Imam’s Farmans and a declared global priority of the Imam to AKDN, is entirely absent from AKF USA’s report.

This omission is conspicuous and inconsistent with the Imam’s Farmans - ethos, particularly given its inclusion in the mission statements of other AKDN entities including Global pluralism centre

4. Governance and the Ismaili Constitution
The Ismaili Constitution, a Farman, the primary governing document for all Jamat and its institutions including AKF, is not referenced in report, or the Foundation’s formation documents, IRS filings, or its 2024 financial statements.

Furthermore, the Constitution itself continues to be withheld from the Jamat, contrary to Hazar Imam’s Farmans on openness and sharing.l with the entire Jamat

5. Financial Clarity and Donor Disclosure

The 2024 report shows approximately $374 million in fixed assets and about $140 million in cash and investments, including the Ismaili Centre in Houston. However, it does not provide a clear breakdown of ownership, valuation, or funding sources. Most importantly, it omits that over 90% of AKF USA’s donations originate directly or indirectly from the Ismaili community, and are leveraged which deserves full transparency regarding the management and allocation of these & all resources of the Jamat

6. Charity and Representation

Despite publicity suggesting participation by AKF AKDN in events such as the Chicago Marathon, AKF USA is not listed among official charity partners of that or other major U.S. marathons. Public communications implying such are therefore misleading. I refer to other instances

Conclusion

The 2024 AKF USA report cannot be regarded as a complete or accurate representation of the Foundation’s activities, governance, or finances.

It presents a promotional narrative, but not the full picture that Jamati members, donors, and the wider public are entitled to.

For the integrity of the Foundation and in respect of Hazar Imam’s Farmans on truth, accountability, and shared responsibility, these omissions should be corrected & clarified

I await a response to these and earlier list of pending requests

Link to Report

https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1977 ... hqfO552USg

Yours respectfully & Sincerely,

M Chatur

[mahebubchatur]

Dear All, including LIF IIS ICAB & Noorani family

I am sharing this to highlight a recent example of Mawlana Hazar Imam’s interaction with members of the Jamat, which illustrates both his accessibility and the inclusive spirit that should guide all Didar and other visits.

During the Chicago Marathon, held on his birthday, Hazar Imam personally proactively interacted with members of the community. In the attached video clip, he is seen speaking directly to individuals, asking how they are, whether they are married, and whether they traveled from nearby or farther afield. He warmly acknowledges their participation, congratulates them, and expresses gratitude for their support.

There is no visible security or obstruction, and the interactions occur naturally, respectfully, and joyfully.

Key Observations and Implications:

1. Accessibility and Inclusion
• There was no need for security barriers, and no Jamat members were prevented from seeing or speaking with Hazar Imam.
• This demonstrates that even in public events, Mawlana Hazar Imam is fully accessible and welcomes direct engagement.
2. Highest Form of Worship and Blessing
• Being able to see, speak to, and interact with Hazar Imam is the highest form of worship, prayer, and enlightenment in the Ismaili tradition.
• Every individual who had this opportunity at the marathon is blessed, and their participation should be recognized as spiritually significant.
3. Implications for Upcoming Didars
• During the upcoming Didar visits in the United States on 5th and 10th November, there should be no obstruction preventing members of the Jamat from seeing or speaking with Hazar Imam.
• Any members waiting outside or standing apart should be welcomed and included, ensuring that all Jamati members benefit from the spiritual Didar.
4. Consistency in Messaging
• Media reports and statements from Ismaili publications confirm that Hazar Imam was delighted to see Jamati participation, expressing gratitude and appreciation.
• Therefore, any internal practices or policies that exclude members from participating or interacting contradict both his expressed wishes and the inclusive example set during public events like the Chicago Marathon.

In summary, the Chicago Marathon provides a clear model: Mawlana Hazar Imam encourages participation, inclusion, and direct interaction without obstruction. The same principles should be applied consistently to all Didar visits, ensuring that every member of the Jamat can receive the blessing, guidance, and inspiration that comes from seeing and speaking with Hazar Imam.

[mahebubchatur]

Dear cc LIF and All including Noorani Family

There is increasing evidence that Farmans from Hazar Imam - His Highness the Aga Khan, including the Constitution, is being withheld deliberately from the Jamat by Leaders - not by Hazar Imam who we know will never withhold divine manifestation of Allah’s Will through Farmans

Farmans are the primary foundation of our faith and Bayah

Hazar Imam has asked for democratic meritocratic and pluralistic leadership. Leaders in control are clearly not eg Withholding Farmans

Our History offers stark lessons for us which Imam reminds us to learn from eg

The Fatimid Empire in Cairo, built by visionary leadership, ultimately fell because integrity was compromised, pluralism was rejected by the elite , and authority was centralized in the hands of a very few.

Those in positions of power became authoritarian, controlling knowledge, decision-making, and the narrative of justice.

The Caliph - Our Imam at the time was forced into exile, pursued and prosecuted, highlighting the need to uphold Farmans

Does not this historical example resonate today.

The principles for leaders emphasized in Farmans by Imam, integrity, pluralism, democracy meritocracy inclusion, and participatory management — are essential safeguards against the same reasons that destroyed societies & empires in the past

The following seven points, drawn from a recent reflection on Leaders integrity, illustrate why we must all uphold & share all Farmans:
1. Integrity is binary — once broken, it’s gone. Mistakes can be forgiven; deliberate breaches of integrity must not
2. Trust is slow to build and instant to lose. Reputation relies on consistent alignment between words and actions.
3. Integrity failure rewrites your story. Once compromised, even genuine efforts are viewed with suspicion.
4. Apologies rarely fix moral breaches. Intentional deception signals negotiable values.
5. Integrity failure creates permanent doubt. Even after reforms, uncertainty persists.
6. In leadership, integrity is the foundation of legitimacy. Without it, loyalty is compliance, not conviction.
7. The paradox of reputation: Integrity can be lost once, but its consequences are enduring.

The damage caused by not sharing Farmans is cumulative.

Just as the Fatimid Empire suffered collapse due to compromised integrity and authoritarian control,

our community today is facing the same risks

Moreover, despite the presence of scholars and the Institute of Ismaili Studies — tasked with educating and guiding leaders — there appears to be no engagement or response from leaders on these critical requests .

The lack of transparency and dialogue undermines Farmans which include pluralism, participation, and not doing so threatens the very ethical foundations of our community & faith

I urge all to take this moment as an opportunity to reaffirm Farmans &

• Ensure full transparency and accessibility of Farmans - guidance and constitution.
• Truly Teach & Encourage pluralism, inclusivity, and participatory governance across all levels
• Uphold integrity in every action, communication, and institutional process within the Jamat

The lessons of history are clear. Not learning from them risks the same.

Responding with courage, honesty, integrity and openness ensures Farmans are upheld shared and goals of pluralism harmony wellbeing and quality of life for all can be achieved , not only for the select same group

The recent Nobel Peace Prize to a Venezuelan champion of democracy underscores a vital lesson: the Prize is not merely an honor bestowed upon an individual, but a global affirmation of the cause of democracy itself. This decision celebrates the courageous struggle against authoritarianism, nepotism, and tyranny

Similarly, Hazar Imam in his Farmans — has advised on upholding pluralism, integrity, transparency and accountability — align with this cause.

In upholding & sharing Farmans we will be blessed by Hazar Imam.

“A brother is the one who truly loves you and shows you the righteous ways. But if one is the son of your father and leads you towards humiliation by guiding you to wrong actions, then he is not your brother. Anyone who teaches truth and leads you to God, truly loves you and indeed is your true brother. The one who directs you towards worldly temptations and therefore makes you forget God, is your enemy and not your brother: Mawla Ali”

Respectfully,

Further feedback and requests

Dear LIF IIS AKDN and All including Noorani family


There is increasing evidence that Farmans from Hazar Imam - His Highness the Aga Khan, including the Constitution, is being withheld deliberately from the Jamat by Leaders - not by Hazar Imam who we know will never withhold divine manifestation of Akash’s Will through Farmans

Farmans are the primary foundation of our faith and Bayah

Hazar Imam has asked for democratic meritocratic and pluralistic leadership. Leaders in control are clearly not eg Withholding Farmans
Our History offers stark lessons for us which Imam reminds us to learn from eg
The Fatimid Empire in Cairo, built by visionary leadership, ultimately fell because integrity was compromised, pluralism was rejected by the elite , and authority was centralized in the hands of a very few.

Those in positions of power became authoritarian, controlling knowledge, decision-making, and the narrative of justice.

The Caliph - Our Imam at the time was forced into exile, pursued and prosecuted, highlighting the need to uphold Farmans

Does not this historical example resonate today.

The principles for leaders emphasized in Farmans by Imam, integrity, pluralism, democracy meritocracy inclusion, and participatory management — are essential safeguards against the same reasons that destroyed societies & empires in the past

The following seven points, drawn from a recent reflection on Leaders integrity, illustrate why we must all uphold & share all Farmans:
1. Integrity is binary — once broken, it’s gone. Mistakes can be forgiven; deliberate breaches of integrity must not
2. Trust is slow to build and instant to lose. Reputation relies on consistent alignment between words and actions.
3. Integrity failure rewrites your story. Once compromised, even genuine efforts are viewed with suspicion.
4. Apologies rarely fix moral breaches. Intentional deception signals negotiable values.
5. Integrity failure creates permanent doubt. Even after reforms, uncertainty persists.
6. In leadership, integrity is the foundation of legitimacy. Without it, loyalty is compliance, not conviction.
7. The paradox of reputation: Integrity can be lost once, but its consequences are enduring.

The damage caused by not sharing Farmans is cumulative.

Just as the Fatimid Empire suffered collapse due to compromised integrity and authoritarian control,

our community today is facing the same risks

Moreover, despite the presence of scholars and the Institute of Ismaili Studies — tasked with educating and guiding leaders — there appears to be no engagement or response from leaders on these critical requests .

The lack of transparency and dialogue undermines Farmans which include pluralism, participation, and not doing so threatens the very ethical foundations of our community & faith

I urge all to take this moment as an opportunity to reaffirm Farmans &
• Ensure full transparency and accessibility of Farmans - guidance and constitution.
• Truly Teach & Encourage pluralism, inclusivity, and participatory governance across all levels
• Uphold integrity in every action, communication, and institutional process within the Jamat

The lessons of history are clear. Not learning from them risks the same.
Responding with courage, honesty, and openness ensures Farmans are upheld and goals of pluralism harmony wellbeing and quality of life for all not only for the select same group

The recent Nobel Peace Prize to a Venezuelan champion of democracy underscores a vital lesson: the Prize is not merely an honor bestowed upon an individual, but a global affirmation of the cause of democracy itself. This decision celebrates the courageous struggle against authoritarianism, nepotism, and tyranny

Similarly, Hazar Imam in his Farmans — has advised on upholding pluralism, integrity, transparency and accountability — align with this cause.

In upholding & sharing Farmans we will be blessed by Hazar Imam.

“A brother is the one who truly loves you and shows you the righteous ways. But if one is the son of your father and leads you towards humiliation by guiding you to wrong actions, then he is not your brother. Anyone who teaches truth and leads you to God, truly loves you and indeed is your true brother. The one who directs you towards worldly temptations and therefore makes you forget God, is your enemy and not your brother: Mawla Ali”

Respectfully,

M Chatur

[kmaherali]

There is increasing evidence that Farmans from Hazar Imam - His Highness the Aga Khan, including the Constitution, is being withheld deliberately from the Jamat by Leaders - not by Hazar Imam who we know will never withhold divine manifestation of Allah’s Will through Farmans

Rubbish nonsense!

I have in front of me 4 Farman books: Farmans made: Made between 2000 2006, 2017 -2018, 1995 -1998, 2007- 2008. Recent Farmans made by Mowlana Hazar Imam are also available!

It doesn't help our Jamat to constantly criticize our institutions established by our Imams. It engenders mistrust and disunity!

[mahebubchatur]

Dear All, including Noorani Family

I share here a further video by Mr. Nizar Daredia, who is presently in Mumbai, offering further evidence of the culture of disinformation and intimidation by Leaders that continues to harm the Jamat. Watch and listen for yourself. Link below

Mr. Daredia directly addresses leaders & their conduct in India, including a Regional President, She has been instructing volunteers and ladies not to welcome visiting murids or to show them our Jamatkhana and our traditions and that Imam has said not to share videos. Not true

Such visitors, coming from outside India, are treated with suspicion rather than with the love, unity, and hospitality that our Imam has repeatedly guided us to uphold.

Mr. Daredia challenges the claim—attributed to the Council and the Huzur department—that “directives from the Imam” forbid videos or sharing of Farmans & traditions. There are none.

He rightly asks: if such communications exist, where is the proof? Let them be shared openly, with signatures and authenticity. Otherwise, it is nothing but lies.

He reminds the leaders that secrecy, suppression, and falsehoods are in direct contradiction to the Farmans of Mawlana Hazar Imam, who has called on us to demystify the faith, to share knowledge, Farmans constitution and to live with transparency and accountability.

Equally false is the excuse that sharing videos or welcoming visitors could cause “terrorism” against our Jamat. As claimed by this named Regiobal Leader. This has never been the case.

Indeed, in our own official community media outlets the same Leaders regularly publish videos of our faith, accessible to anyone. Why then suppress members of the Jamat

This culture of fear and dishonesty is not only hypocritical but harmful. Leaders preach “One Jamat” in words, while in action they divide, exclude, and marginalise them. Vulnerable murids in India remain without adequate housing, health support, or dignity—despite abundant funds and donor generosity.

Instead of supporting & protecting them, leaders deny them even the basic right to even access the Constitution and Farmans despite Farmans.

This is further evidence, further testimony, and further appeal:

Stop lying to the Jamat.
Stop suppressing Farmans, the Constitution, and authentic guidance.
Stop intimidating those who welcome others to Jamatkhanas and traditions.
Start treating the Jamat with honesty, love, and respect, as Hazar Imam has repeatedly directed.
It is time for change. Let this testimony from Mumbai be another reminder that silence, secrecy, and fear serve no one—not the Imam, not the institutions, and not the Jamat.

Link

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/19pcPRtcxH/

Respectfully,

Further Letter and evidence to LIF Leaders and All

No reply from them so far

Dear All

More videos and complaints about Mulhi Salim , still in position, and the group of Leaders and their wealthy circle of friends who control and who exclude and abuse now 3 female members of the Jamat who are poor !!!!!

2 more videos of the Culture of Leaders and this shameless Mukhi

More Video and audios about this Mukhi and Leaders

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1B8NE7 ... tid=wwXIfr

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1657Xt ... tid=wwXIfr


Mahebub Chatur