This is a legal entity formed under the Ismaili Ismaili constitution for the benefit and governance of the community.
Imam says the role of LIF is to meet, deliberate and make submission to Hazar Imam (Aga Khan), AND, what Imam specifically directs and mandates LIF. Leaders' International Forum shall meet from time to time to exercise deliberative and consultative functions and submit its views to Mawlana Hazar Imam in respect of any matters, activities, interests or questions affecting the Jamat, AND specifically referred to it by Mawlana Hazar Imam. The submissions of the Leaders' International Forum shall be implemented, only if specifically approved by Mawlana Hazar Imam..”
At Present LIF has 25 Members plus a CEO ( & staff/Team whose details are not provided by LIF)
20 of the 25 members are Presidents of Ismaili community National Councils globally.( See below for full list)
The other 5 are;
1. Chairman of LIF - presently Malik Talib (Before him it was M Eboo who is now Ismaili Ambassador for Canada. Before his it was Azim Lakhani who is now Ismaili Ambassador for Kenya (They all have other positions in community Institutions which are not provided)
2. E Rupani - CEO - Based in UK and IIS– He has been a part of the top Leadership for over 40 years.
3. Shafik Sachedina for over 25 years - Based in UK. He has many mutli and multiple positions in many community Institutions.
4. Razia Kurji - No profile and any other details are not available
5. Tania Kassim No Profile and any other details are not available.
The names on the Executive committee which is appointed by members of LIF, is not known and not provided.
THE FULL LIST of 26 BELOW
1. Chairman Alijah Malik Talib Canada ( ex President)
2. CEO - Ekbal Rupani - At IIS - for over 40 years
3. Amir Baig Dada Baig – Afghanistan
4. Karim Esmail Sumar – New Zealand & Australia
5. Amyn Saleh - Bangladesh
6. Ameerally Kassim-Lakha – Canada
7. Temiza Nathoo Rawji - DRC Africa
8. Zain Fancy - Far East - covers Malaysia and Singapore
9. Shamir Samdjee – France
10. Ashish Merchant - India
11. Firouz Akbari - Iran
12. Huzur Mukhiani Shamira Dostmohamed – Kenya
13. Pinou Cheraly – Malagacy
14. Amin Rawjee – Mozambique
15. Hafiz-Ur-Rehman Sherali – Pakistan
16. Rahim Firozali - Portugal
17. Ali Qabalan – Syria
18. Muzaffar Jorubov – Tajikistan
19. Alijah Amin Lakhani – Tanzania
20. Azim Tharani – Uganda
21. Aziz Merchant - UAE
22. Naushad Jivraj - United Kingdom
23. Al-Karim Alidina – USA
24. Vazir Dr Shafik Sachedina - Life Member -
25. Arzina Kurji - member
26. Rania Kassim - member
Contact details of the members, or profiles & list of their present multiple positions in other Community entities are not on community websites, directories nor provided on request even to members of the community
MANDATE OF LIF, in the Ismaili Constitution - 1998
The Ismaili constitution is a Firman (Order), ordained by Imam, Aga Khan, and he says in the constitution that it is to be read with Firmans and given freely to all Ismaili Muslims (These are tot given, even on on request)
Leaders International Forum - LIF
Quote
”There shall be a Leaders' International Forum to be known as "His Highness Prince Aga Khan Shia Imami Ismaili Leaders' International
"Forum".
4.2 The Leaders' International Forum shall be directly under the authority of Mawlana Hazar Imam.
4.3 The Leaders' International Forum shall meet from time to time to exercise deliberative and consultative functions and submit its views to Mawlana Hazar Imam in respect of any matters, activities, interests or questions affecting the jamat AND, specifically referred to it by Mawlana Hazar Imam. The submissions of the Leaders' International Forum shall be implemented only if specifically approved by Mawlana Hazar Imam.
4.4 The Leaders' International Forum shall be composed of:
(a) a Chairman who may or may not be a President of a National Council and who shall hold office for such period as Mawlana Hazar Imam may determine;
(b) persons appointed from amongst the Presidents of the National Councils, whose tenure of office as members of the Leaders' International Forum shall be coextensive with their respective tenure of office as President; and
(c) such other members as may be appointed from time to time who shall hold office for such period as Mawlana Hazar Imam may determine”.
The Full constitutional rules of LIF, and related Firmans, since 1986
These have not been published in the Ismaili websites or publications since 1986. Copies are not provided on request, even to members of the community.
Link to Ismaili constitutions http://www.ismaili.net/html/modules.php ... forum&f=30
Clarification and information has been requested from the Leadership. Not received and will be posted when received.
On 6th December 1993,
His Highness the AgaKhan, Hazar Imam, sent to and for the community ( Jamat) the following guidance message and blessings (Talika) through their President & members of each National Council. (This was followed by a two day meeting with them in Aiglemont in France in 16th & 17th December 1993)
The Talika
The President & Members
His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan Shia Imami Ismaili Council for ....
My dear President and Members ,
On the occasion of my birthday the 13th of December 1993, I appoint with my most affectionate paternal maternal blessings, the beloved spiritual children mentioned here below as the chairman and members of the Leaders’ International Forum
My Jamat is aware that under the Ismaili Constitution promulgated in December 1986 the Leaders’ International Forum conducts deliberates & makes recommendations to me on such matters which I may refer to it, OR which it may suggest to me, in relation to, the unity, progress and improvement of the quality of life of my Jamat worldwide
Since the appointment of the first members of the Leaders’ International Forum, six years ago, many exceptional and profoundly significant changes have occurred at the regional level and individually in the countries in which my Jamat lives.
This deep process of change requires the widest observation as well is mature and careful reflection if it is to be harnessed for the improvement of the quality of life of the largest number possible of my spiritual children, bringing together in one forum - the Leaders’ International Forum - spiritual children from a large number of areas and countries will I believe enable them to share their respective observations and information and to create a pooled knowledge base from which to address in a more universal manner, with guidance of the Imam of the time, the new forces shaping the world ahead
The widened Leaders’ International Forum will also be better attuned to the ever increasing mobility of my Jamat and to determine how the Jamat needs and opportunities of the future can best be served by our institutions, nationally and internationally
I am confident that the composition of the Leaders’ International Forum membership will give a new and necessary global dimension to the matters it addresses as required at this time
I give my most affectionate paternal maternal loving blessings to the Chairman, and Members for success in their duties
The chairman
Mr Anil Ishani.
Members appointed were the Presidents of each of the 15 National councils at that time, namely;
Canada, - Aziz Bhaloo
India, - Hassanali Firasta
Kenya, - Kurban Bhaloo
Pakistan, - Tajuddin Manji
Syria, - Diab Yahya
Tanzania, - Abdul Sultan Jamal
United Kingdom, - Shafik Sachedina
United States of America, - Habubullah Jamal
Bangladesh, - Ashraf Nizar Ali
Malaysia and Singapore, - Ameer A Mohammed
United Arab emirates, - Sadrudin Damji
Malagasy Republic, - Azad Rajabally
France, - Fared Nandjee
Portugal, - Nazimuddin Ahman
Tajikistan, - Daulat Khodanazarov
Leaders International Forum - LIF
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mahebubchatur
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- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Leaders International Forum - LIF
Last edited by mahebubchatur on Sat Mar 27, 2021 10:40 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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mahebubchatur
- Posts: 449
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
In 2017 , at the start of the Diamond Jubilee , the Jamats Leadership ( LIF) gave the following pledges of Bay’ah & Allegiance to Hazar Imam #AgaKhan
Khudawand we now wish to submit our pledges and loyalty. I request the Jamat to be upstanding.
Oh Imam e Zaman on this 11th Day of July 2017, on this auspicious occasion of the commencement of your Dismind Jubilee year, we present here before you, we voice emotions, commitment and sentiments of millions of of our brothers and sisters around the world.
“We submit our homage to you and reaffirm our Bayah.
Representing our Ismaili brothers and sisters we make the following solemn pledges
1. Mawla we submit to you our unreserved spiritual allegiance
2. We pledge our absolute loyalty
3. We submit ourselves to you as our Imam, Pir and Mursheed to lead us on the path of Surat ul mustaqeem
4. We submit all our love devotion and dedication to you
5. We submit our allegiance to you as the bearer of true authority
6. We pledge our unreserved and unconditional support for all your endeavours
7. We pledge our total support in your work in the. Abuse of Islam, our faith, peace, compassion and human dignity
8. We submit our humble gratitude for your constant care, protection, guidance, and inspiration
9. We pray for the safety security good health and long life for all who are near and dear to you
10. We pray that we be blessed with your Imamat for ever more
Ya Mawla we pray you accept our humble pledges and submissions. Amen
Khudawand we beg to submit this scroll in affirmation of our pledges.
(LIF Chairman M Eboo the presented the scroll to Hazar Imam representing all murids globally).
Hazar Imam has asked the Leadership to be pluralist inclusive Leaders with Best Practice. Link to related Firmans - Imam’s guidance & Goals http://ismaili.net/source/chatur-best-practice.pdf
Khudawand we now wish to submit our pledges and loyalty. I request the Jamat to be upstanding.
Oh Imam e Zaman on this 11th Day of July 2017, on this auspicious occasion of the commencement of your Dismind Jubilee year, we present here before you, we voice emotions, commitment and sentiments of millions of of our brothers and sisters around the world.
“We submit our homage to you and reaffirm our Bayah.
Representing our Ismaili brothers and sisters we make the following solemn pledges
1. Mawla we submit to you our unreserved spiritual allegiance
2. We pledge our absolute loyalty
3. We submit ourselves to you as our Imam, Pir and Mursheed to lead us on the path of Surat ul mustaqeem
4. We submit all our love devotion and dedication to you
5. We submit our allegiance to you as the bearer of true authority
6. We pledge our unreserved and unconditional support for all your endeavours
7. We pledge our total support in your work in the. Abuse of Islam, our faith, peace, compassion and human dignity
8. We submit our humble gratitude for your constant care, protection, guidance, and inspiration
9. We pray for the safety security good health and long life for all who are near and dear to you
10. We pray that we be blessed with your Imamat for ever more
Ya Mawla we pray you accept our humble pledges and submissions. Amen
Khudawand we beg to submit this scroll in affirmation of our pledges.
(LIF Chairman M Eboo the presented the scroll to Hazar Imam representing all murids globally).
Hazar Imam has asked the Leadership to be pluralist inclusive Leaders with Best Practice. Link to related Firmans - Imam’s guidance & Goals http://ismaili.net/source/chatur-best-practice.pdf
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mahebubchatur
- Posts: 449
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Guidance on Best Practice & Ismaili Ambassadors
The Present guidance/Firmans of Imam, #AgaKhan is to have Best Practice Inclusive Leadership accountability and transparency. All appointed Leaders in every position has a Primary duty to read follow and share Imams Firmans more at http://ismaili.net/source/chatur-best-practice.pdf
The Ismaili Community Institutions have appointed Ismaili Ambassadors to serve the community in various countries under bilateral agreements with the governments & AKDN - more at http://www.ismaili.net/html/modules.php ... pic&t=9188
H H The #AgaKhan III Imam at the time. And today Imam has directed the Leadership - LIF, & all Ismaili Muslims forctheir Farmans (guidances) to be read shared and implemented.
Farmans are Imams Talim and Tawil ( teachings and Interpretations ), of the Quran. Link below to over 100 Farmans to give and share Farmans.
The Ismaili constitution, which is a Farman, Hazar Imam , Aga Khan says must be given to all, & read it with Farmans.
Any Leaders or Ismaili Muslim blocking or not sharing them is going against the Imam’s Farmans & so against their faith & constitution.
http://ismaili.net/timeline/2018/101-proofs-chatur.pdf
https://www.facebook.com/15348147601242 ... 82769/?d=n
#OneJamat #viralpluralism
The Ismaili Community Institutions have appointed Ismaili Ambassadors to serve the community in various countries under bilateral agreements with the governments & AKDN - more at http://www.ismaili.net/html/modules.php ... pic&t=9188
H H The #AgaKhan III Imam at the time. And today Imam has directed the Leadership - LIF, & all Ismaili Muslims forctheir Farmans (guidances) to be read shared and implemented.
Farmans are Imams Talim and Tawil ( teachings and Interpretations ), of the Quran. Link below to over 100 Farmans to give and share Farmans.
The Ismaili constitution, which is a Farman, Hazar Imam , Aga Khan says must be given to all, & read it with Farmans.
Any Leaders or Ismaili Muslim blocking or not sharing them is going against the Imam’s Farmans & so against their faith & constitution.
http://ismaili.net/timeline/2018/101-proofs-chatur.pdf
https://www.facebook.com/15348147601242 ... 82769/?d=n
#OneJamat #viralpluralism
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mahebubchatur
- Posts: 449
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Leaders must work together to serve the community
Imam, Aga Khan has asked the Leaders and the community to work together with a goal to serve the community, and do so with best practice, with wisdom and with consensus.
“My Goal is that over the years ahead the institutions will achieve levels of performance called “best practice. And the moment I am able to achieve that with my Jamat in India you will be positioned in a way which I think will be very significant for the future of the Jamat.
But in order to get there I need unity in the Jamat I need all my leaders and I need all my Jamat to work together as one brotherhood, with a common goal which is to serve the Jamat
The first thing I need is unity. The second thing I need is wisdom - wisdom is not a something you learn . it is something that Life teaches you about. But I need the wisdom of the Jamat to deal with the issues in the wise manner , and in a patient manner and in the consensual manner bringing everybody around a common set of goals
That is the spirit of Islam because it is built on brotherhood & therefore I say to my Jamat work together toward common goals “ - (Farman of Hazar Imam 2013)
https://twitter.com/chaturmahebub/statu ... 97730?s=21
Farmans to share Farmans
http://ismaili.net/timeline/2018/101-proofs-chatur.pdf
Imam-guidance https://www.facebook.com/15348147601242 ... 59370/?d=n
“My Goal is that over the years ahead the institutions will achieve levels of performance called “best practice. And the moment I am able to achieve that with my Jamat in India you will be positioned in a way which I think will be very significant for the future of the Jamat.
But in order to get there I need unity in the Jamat I need all my leaders and I need all my Jamat to work together as one brotherhood, with a common goal which is to serve the Jamat
The first thing I need is unity. The second thing I need is wisdom - wisdom is not a something you learn . it is something that Life teaches you about. But I need the wisdom of the Jamat to deal with the issues in the wise manner , and in a patient manner and in the consensual manner bringing everybody around a common set of goals
That is the spirit of Islam because it is built on brotherhood & therefore I say to my Jamat work together toward common goals “ - (Farman of Hazar Imam 2013)
https://twitter.com/chaturmahebub/statu ... 97730?s=21
Farmans to share Farmans
http://ismaili.net/timeline/2018/101-proofs-chatur.pdf
Imam-guidance https://www.facebook.com/15348147601242 ... 59370/?d=n
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mahebubchatur
- Posts: 449
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Present members of LIF - July 2021 -TheIsmaili
Alijah Malik Talib. - Chairman Canada
Alijah Amir Baig Dada Baig -Afghanistan
Karim Ismaili Sumar - Australia & NewZealand
Rai Ameerali Kasim Lakha - Canada
Mukhi Tameeza Nathoo Rawji - Congo
Zain Fancy -Far East
Ashish Merchant - India
Firouz Akbarali - Iran
Mukhiani Shamira Dostmohammed. - Kenya
Rai Pinou Cherali- Malagasy
Alijah Hafiz ur Rehman Sherali. - Pakistan
Amin Rawji. - Mozambique
Mukhi Rahim Ramji - Portugal
Mukhi Ali Kabalan - Syria
Mukhi Muzaffar Jorubov - Tajikistan
Alijah Amin Lakhani - Tanzania
Mukhi Azim Tharani - Uganda
Mukhi Aziz Merchant - UAE
Aitmadi Naushad Jivraj - UK/Europe (excluding Portugal/France)
Alijah Al Karim Alidina - USA
Vazir Shafik Sachedina
Alijah Arzina Kurji
Mukhiani Rania Kassim
Mukhi Sameer Shamdjee - France
Amin Saleh -Bangladesh
Alijah Malik Talib. - Chairman Canada
Alijah Amir Baig Dada Baig -Afghanistan
Karim Ismaili Sumar - Australia & NewZealand
Rai Ameerali Kasim Lakha - Canada
Mukhi Tameeza Nathoo Rawji - Congo
Zain Fancy -Far East
Ashish Merchant - India
Firouz Akbarali - Iran
Mukhiani Shamira Dostmohammed. - Kenya
Rai Pinou Cherali- Malagasy
Alijah Hafiz ur Rehman Sherali. - Pakistan
Amin Rawji. - Mozambique
Mukhi Rahim Ramji - Portugal
Mukhi Ali Kabalan - Syria
Mukhi Muzaffar Jorubov - Tajikistan
Alijah Amin Lakhani - Tanzania
Mukhi Azim Tharani - Uganda
Mukhi Aziz Merchant - UAE
Aitmadi Naushad Jivraj - UK/Europe (excluding Portugal/France)
Alijah Al Karim Alidina - USA
Vazir Shafik Sachedina
Alijah Arzina Kurji
Mukhiani Rania Kassim
Mukhi Sameer Shamdjee - France
Amin Saleh -Bangladesh
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mahebubchatur
- Posts: 449
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Re: Leaders International Forum - LIF
Letter to LIF including a list of all the current members of LIF
Subject: Malik Talib and LIF - - video - Conduct - still Withholding our Constitution, Farmans, & information
Dear ALL - including LIF Noorani Family & Ismaili Imamat Boards
Further ….
Malik Talib, continues as Chair of the Leaders’ International Forum (LIF), and as “a senior official” at the Ismaili Imamat -legal entity - represents the Jamat (under their oath and Bayah renewed on 11 Feb 2025)
(Other members of LIF include Shafik Sachedina & E Rupani - for decades - full list below)
As highlighted in the following tweets and a video
Makik Talib appears in a video - circulated through official community media - suggesting - he thinks - that Imam wants the Jamat to rise above conflict and to be united as one Jamat & in link https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1929 ... hqfO552USg
However, rather than quoting directly from Farmans, he offers his interpretation of what he “thinks” Imam may have said—despite his access to all the Imam’s annotated guidance Farmans & constitution which he is withholding despite Hazar Imam’s specific directions on 11 Feb 2025 & 18 March 2025 in a Farman
This he knows - as a lawyer - is misleading and he and LIF are deliberately avoiding transparency & his legal duty under Bayah and Oath.
Unity is indeed in Imam’s Farmans & direction, -The constitution is also a Farman
This selective communication is not new. Mr. Talib was involved in the 2010 court case attempting to prevent the release of Farmans to the Jamat—despite serious allegations of forgery and irregularities filed in court .
Since then, repeated requests have been made to him-LIF for:
• The full Ismaili Constitution, including all amendments;
• Farmans, which remain withheld despite murids’ Bayah and rights to guidance;
• Clarification and accountability on various ongoing specific matters affecting the Jamat including participatory inclusion of all the local communities
Among the many pending concerns are:
• Questions regarding the passing of the Imam, as announced on 4 February 2025. Including His health before death announced -cause of - death, Will reading & Bayah, closed coffin - Jamat excluded etc.
• The unauthorised closure of Jamatkhanas, especially in eg India UK. The ongoing court cases.
• The current legal case filed in Kenya, where a court order has been sought for accountability, and murids have specifically requested the Imam personally to provide his directions. There is widespread concern of communications said to be from the Imam are being filtered or interpreted by leaders without verifiable authenticity, Including eg by Malik in this video
Mr. Talib - LIF has repeatedly been asked to provide answers and documentation regarding these matters.
His response has consistently been that all his actions are in accordance with the Imam’s Farmans-guidance.
Yet, he has not produced any such Farmans & evidence, despite numerous requests over many years.
This raises further & serious concerns about LIF’s institutional integrity, especially when Mr. Talib continues to serve as Chair of LIF with the same group of Leaders still in control today
Public messaging by Leaders about unity must not replace upholding Farmans which include pluralism transparency, ethical conduct, and faithful delivery of the Imam’s guidance.
Withholding Farmans, the Constitution, and answers to community concerns contradicts both the spirit and the letter of their legal duty & Bayah.
I respectfully urge all those in positions of responsibility to take these matters seriously and act in the interest of Farmans - truth, accountability, and the wellbeing of the Jamat.
I again request all to share the full constitution, Farmans and do what Imam has asked in Farmans
Yours sincerely,
M Chatur
List of LIF present members
viewtopic.php?t=9337
Members
Shafik Sachedina
Huzur Mukhiani Zamira
Dildorbekova
Huzur Mukhi Aziz Fayez
Raibanoo Abir Mohamed
LIF Secretary
Vazir Eqbal Rupani
President, Council for the U.A.E
Rai Aziz Merchant
President, Council for The UK
Aitmadi Naushad Jivraj
President, Council for The USA
Aitmadi Al-Karim Alidina
President, Council for Syria
Rai Saheba Rania Kassim
President, Council for Tajikistan
Rai Muzaffar Jorubov
President, Council for Tanzania
Rai Kamal Khimji
President, Council for Uganda
Rai Saheba Arzina Kurji
President, Council for Mozambique
Alijah Nurddin Vazir
President, Council for Pakistan
Aitmadi Nizar Mewawalla
President, Council for Portugal
Rai Saheba Yasmin
Bhudarally
President, Council for Southeast Asia
Alijah Zain Fancy
President, Council for India
Rai Asif Porbunderwala
President, Council for Iran
Alijah Firouz Akbari
President, Council for Kenya
Alijah Saheba Shamira
Dostmohamed
President, Council for The Madagascar
Rai Nazir Veldjee
President, Council for Bangladesh
Rai Madadali Virani
President, Council for Canada
Aitmadi Ameerally
Kassim-Lakha
President, Council for The Democratic Republic of Congo
Huzur Mukhi Amir
Allauddin Surani
President, Council for France
Huzur Mukhi Aiaze Mitha
Chairperson
Vazir Malik Talib
President, Council for Afghanistan
Alijah Abdul Hadi Alizada
President, Council for Angola
Aitmadi Zahir Aly Sidi
President, Council for Australia and New Zealand
Huzur Mukhiani Dr Gulzar
Lakhani
Profile of M Talib
Malik Talib was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, educated at McGill University and trained as a lawyer at the Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto. He is an entrepreneur and corporate director leading the Talmont Group based in Vancouver, British Columbia. He has served as Chair or Board Member for various organisations, including the King's Trust Canada, the B.C.
Children's Hospital Foundation, United Way for the Lower Mainland Cabinet, Vancouver Foundation, Mulgrave School and LIFT Philanthropy Partners. For more than 30 years, Mr. Talib has served in various leadership positions within the Ismaili Community, including President and Vice-President of the Aga Khan Council for Canada, by appointment from His Highness the Aga Khan. In addition, he is a Director on the Board of the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto and a member of Global Centre for Pluralism corporation in Ottawa.
Most recently, he was appointed by His Highness the Aga Khan as the Chairman of the Ismaili Leaders' International Forum (LIF) as well as a Senior Official of the ismaili Imamat.
Full profile
https://rhf-frh.ca/about/board-of-direc ... 20Partners.
M Chatur
Subject: Malik Talib and LIF - - video - Conduct - still Withholding our Constitution, Farmans, & information
Dear ALL - including LIF Noorani Family & Ismaili Imamat Boards
Further ….
Malik Talib, continues as Chair of the Leaders’ International Forum (LIF), and as “a senior official” at the Ismaili Imamat -legal entity - represents the Jamat (under their oath and Bayah renewed on 11 Feb 2025)
(Other members of LIF include Shafik Sachedina & E Rupani - for decades - full list below)
As highlighted in the following tweets and a video
Makik Talib appears in a video - circulated through official community media - suggesting - he thinks - that Imam wants the Jamat to rise above conflict and to be united as one Jamat & in link https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1929 ... hqfO552USg
However, rather than quoting directly from Farmans, he offers his interpretation of what he “thinks” Imam may have said—despite his access to all the Imam’s annotated guidance Farmans & constitution which he is withholding despite Hazar Imam’s specific directions on 11 Feb 2025 & 18 March 2025 in a Farman
This he knows - as a lawyer - is misleading and he and LIF are deliberately avoiding transparency & his legal duty under Bayah and Oath.
Unity is indeed in Imam’s Farmans & direction, -The constitution is also a Farman
This selective communication is not new. Mr. Talib was involved in the 2010 court case attempting to prevent the release of Farmans to the Jamat—despite serious allegations of forgery and irregularities filed in court .
Since then, repeated requests have been made to him-LIF for:
• The full Ismaili Constitution, including all amendments;
• Farmans, which remain withheld despite murids’ Bayah and rights to guidance;
• Clarification and accountability on various ongoing specific matters affecting the Jamat including participatory inclusion of all the local communities
Among the many pending concerns are:
• Questions regarding the passing of the Imam, as announced on 4 February 2025. Including His health before death announced -cause of - death, Will reading & Bayah, closed coffin - Jamat excluded etc.
• The unauthorised closure of Jamatkhanas, especially in eg India UK. The ongoing court cases.
• The current legal case filed in Kenya, where a court order has been sought for accountability, and murids have specifically requested the Imam personally to provide his directions. There is widespread concern of communications said to be from the Imam are being filtered or interpreted by leaders without verifiable authenticity, Including eg by Malik in this video
Mr. Talib - LIF has repeatedly been asked to provide answers and documentation regarding these matters.
His response has consistently been that all his actions are in accordance with the Imam’s Farmans-guidance.
Yet, he has not produced any such Farmans & evidence, despite numerous requests over many years.
This raises further & serious concerns about LIF’s institutional integrity, especially when Mr. Talib continues to serve as Chair of LIF with the same group of Leaders still in control today
Public messaging by Leaders about unity must not replace upholding Farmans which include pluralism transparency, ethical conduct, and faithful delivery of the Imam’s guidance.
Withholding Farmans, the Constitution, and answers to community concerns contradicts both the spirit and the letter of their legal duty & Bayah.
I respectfully urge all those in positions of responsibility to take these matters seriously and act in the interest of Farmans - truth, accountability, and the wellbeing of the Jamat.
I again request all to share the full constitution, Farmans and do what Imam has asked in Farmans
Yours sincerely,
M Chatur
List of LIF present members
viewtopic.php?t=9337
Members
Shafik Sachedina
Huzur Mukhiani Zamira
Dildorbekova
Huzur Mukhi Aziz Fayez
Raibanoo Abir Mohamed
LIF Secretary
Vazir Eqbal Rupani
President, Council for the U.A.E
Rai Aziz Merchant
President, Council for The UK
Aitmadi Naushad Jivraj
President, Council for The USA
Aitmadi Al-Karim Alidina
President, Council for Syria
Rai Saheba Rania Kassim
President, Council for Tajikistan
Rai Muzaffar Jorubov
President, Council for Tanzania
Rai Kamal Khimji
President, Council for Uganda
Rai Saheba Arzina Kurji
President, Council for Mozambique
Alijah Nurddin Vazir
President, Council for Pakistan
Aitmadi Nizar Mewawalla
President, Council for Portugal
Rai Saheba Yasmin
Bhudarally
President, Council for Southeast Asia
Alijah Zain Fancy
President, Council for India
Rai Asif Porbunderwala
President, Council for Iran
Alijah Firouz Akbari
President, Council for Kenya
Alijah Saheba Shamira
Dostmohamed
President, Council for The Madagascar
Rai Nazir Veldjee
President, Council for Bangladesh
Rai Madadali Virani
President, Council for Canada
Aitmadi Ameerally
Kassim-Lakha
President, Council for The Democratic Republic of Congo
Huzur Mukhi Amir
Allauddin Surani
President, Council for France
Huzur Mukhi Aiaze Mitha
Chairperson
Vazir Malik Talib
President, Council for Afghanistan
Alijah Abdul Hadi Alizada
President, Council for Angola
Aitmadi Zahir Aly Sidi
President, Council for Australia and New Zealand
Huzur Mukhiani Dr Gulzar
Lakhani
Profile of M Talib
Malik Talib was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, educated at McGill University and trained as a lawyer at the Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto. He is an entrepreneur and corporate director leading the Talmont Group based in Vancouver, British Columbia. He has served as Chair or Board Member for various organisations, including the King's Trust Canada, the B.C.
Children's Hospital Foundation, United Way for the Lower Mainland Cabinet, Vancouver Foundation, Mulgrave School and LIFT Philanthropy Partners. For more than 30 years, Mr. Talib has served in various leadership positions within the Ismaili Community, including President and Vice-President of the Aga Khan Council for Canada, by appointment from His Highness the Aga Khan. In addition, he is a Director on the Board of the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto and a member of Global Centre for Pluralism corporation in Ottawa.
Most recently, he was appointed by His Highness the Aga Khan as the Chairman of the Ismaili Leaders' International Forum (LIF) as well as a Senior Official of the ismaili Imamat.
Full profile
https://rhf-frh.ca/about/board-of-direc ... 20Partners.
M Chatur
-
mahebubchatur
- Posts: 449
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Re: Leaders International Forum - LIF
Letter to LIF & all below - Awaiting a response
On Wed, 11 Jun 2025 at 17:13, Mahebub Chatur <mahebubchatur@gmail.com> wrote:
Subject: Urgent Request for Clarification and Immediate Action Regarding Mr. Malik Talib’s Video Interview, Public Statements, and the Ongoing Withholding of the Constitution and Farmans
Letter To:
The Chairman, Leaders’ International Forum (LIF) – Mr. Malik Talib
All Members of the LIF
All Institutional Leaders including DJI - Ismaili Imamat
CC: Noorani Family, Jamati Members (for inclusion and pluralism)
By Email
Date: 11 June 2025
Ya Ali Madad,
I write with deep concern and renewed urgency following the public interview aired today featuring Mr. Malik Talib, current Chairman of the Leaders’ International Forum (LIF), who also served as President of the Aga Khan Council for Canada, and continues to hold multiple senior roles within the Ismaili Imamat and affiliated Boards.
In the video, Mr. Talib outlines what he describes as three key lessons learned from over two decades of leadership within our global Jamat.
The interview is available at the following link:
Interview Link https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1932 ... hqfO552USg
According to Mr. Malik Talib:
1. He “parks his ego at the door” – suggesting humility and openness in every engagement.
2. He “values diverse perspectives and consensus” – indicating a commitment to pluralism and inclusion.
3. He believes that “in giving, he receives more” – framing service as a reciprocal process of learning and listening.
However, these statements are starkly contradicted by his actual conduct—both recent and over many years. In particular:
• Mr. Talib & LIF continues to withhold the Constitution and Farmans—foundational guidance from Mawlana Hazar Imam that rightfully belongs to, and is meant to guide, the entire Jamat.
• He LIF has ignored repeated, respectful, and sincere communications and questions submitted by murids, in direct violation of the spirit of ethical, inclusive, and responsive leadership.
• When pressed, Mr. Talib has attributed his inaction to “doing what Hazar Imam is saying,” without providing any Farman or written instruction to support his claim—raising serious concerns given the history
• His leadership tenure also includes involvement in the controversial copyright lawsuit concerning the Farmans, which included serious allegations of forgery—a case that remains unresolved in the minds and hearts of many in the Jamat. (See earlier correspondence.)
These contradictions between Mr. Talib’s public statements and his ongoing actions must now be addressed directly transparently inclusively and institutionally
As Mawlana Hazar Imam clearly stated on 11 February 2024, “It is actions and behaviours—not words—that matter.”
Malik’s actions are far from aligned with what he professes and claims
⸻
Key Questions and Formal Requests
1. Will Mr. Talib & LIF now act on the very values and principles he claims to uphold—humility, inclusion, transparency, pluralism—and begin responding to the outstanding requests for access to the Constitution and Farmans? Will this begin immediately, as of today?
2. Is the interview current or prerecorded ?
Mr. Talib claims in the interview to be in Dubai for the Global Encounters Festival. However, parts of the interview appear to be recycled from earlier footage. Please confirm the authenticity and date of the actual interview.
3. What is the official position of the Leaders’ International Forum (LIF) on the serious and ongoing failure to respond to murids in good faith, the lack of transparency, and the widening gap between stated leadership values and actual practice? And not providing the full constitution and Farmans ?
4. When will the Constitution and Farmans be formally released to ALL the murids who have made sincere, reverent, and rightful requests for guidance that is central to their faith? And Hazar Imam reminded Leaders to do so on 18 March 2025
When will Mr. Talib and LIF respond to the 17 specific questions already submitted in prior communications? - see earlier emails in the last few weeks
⸻
This letter is not personal. It is a formal, principled, and constitutionally grounded appeal—in accordance with Farmans, Bayah, and our Imam’s repeatedly stated guidance on truth, justice, inclusion, and responsibility.
The murids of the Jamat have the right to expect and to hold accountable those who claim to serve in leadership capacities. Institutions must reflect the values they profess, not in rhetoric, but in verifiable action.
We now await your clear, documented, and timely response—not just with words, but with the actions our beloved Imam has asked us all to uphold.
Link to the last letter to LIF -Leaders viewtopic.php?p=73599#p73599
With prayers and in service of Imam and As one Jamat
M. Chatur
On Wed, 11 Jun 2025 at 17:13, Mahebub Chatur <mahebubchatur@gmail.com> wrote:
Subject: Urgent Request for Clarification and Immediate Action Regarding Mr. Malik Talib’s Video Interview, Public Statements, and the Ongoing Withholding of the Constitution and Farmans
Letter To:
The Chairman, Leaders’ International Forum (LIF) – Mr. Malik Talib
All Members of the LIF
All Institutional Leaders including DJI - Ismaili Imamat
CC: Noorani Family, Jamati Members (for inclusion and pluralism)
By Email
Date: 11 June 2025
Ya Ali Madad,
I write with deep concern and renewed urgency following the public interview aired today featuring Mr. Malik Talib, current Chairman of the Leaders’ International Forum (LIF), who also served as President of the Aga Khan Council for Canada, and continues to hold multiple senior roles within the Ismaili Imamat and affiliated Boards.
In the video, Mr. Talib outlines what he describes as three key lessons learned from over two decades of leadership within our global Jamat.
The interview is available at the following link:
Interview Link https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1932 ... hqfO552USgAccording to Mr. Malik Talib:
1. He “parks his ego at the door” – suggesting humility and openness in every engagement.
2. He “values diverse perspectives and consensus” – indicating a commitment to pluralism and inclusion.
3. He believes that “in giving, he receives more” – framing service as a reciprocal process of learning and listening.
However, these statements are starkly contradicted by his actual conduct—both recent and over many years. In particular:
• Mr. Talib & LIF continues to withhold the Constitution and Farmans—foundational guidance from Mawlana Hazar Imam that rightfully belongs to, and is meant to guide, the entire Jamat.
• He LIF has ignored repeated, respectful, and sincere communications and questions submitted by murids, in direct violation of the spirit of ethical, inclusive, and responsive leadership.
• When pressed, Mr. Talib has attributed his inaction to “doing what Hazar Imam is saying,” without providing any Farman or written instruction to support his claim—raising serious concerns given the history
• His leadership tenure also includes involvement in the controversial copyright lawsuit concerning the Farmans, which included serious allegations of forgery—a case that remains unresolved in the minds and hearts of many in the Jamat. (See earlier correspondence.)
These contradictions between Mr. Talib’s public statements and his ongoing actions must now be addressed directly transparently inclusively and institutionally
As Mawlana Hazar Imam clearly stated on 11 February 2024, “It is actions and behaviours—not words—that matter.”
Malik’s actions are far from aligned with what he professes and claims
⸻
Key Questions and Formal Requests1. Will Mr. Talib & LIF now act on the very values and principles he claims to uphold—humility, inclusion, transparency, pluralism—and begin responding to the outstanding requests for access to the Constitution and Farmans? Will this begin immediately, as of today?
2. Is the interview current or prerecorded ?
Mr. Talib claims in the interview to be in Dubai for the Global Encounters Festival. However, parts of the interview appear to be recycled from earlier footage. Please confirm the authenticity and date of the actual interview.
3. What is the official position of the Leaders’ International Forum (LIF) on the serious and ongoing failure to respond to murids in good faith, the lack of transparency, and the widening gap between stated leadership values and actual practice? And not providing the full constitution and Farmans ?
4. When will the Constitution and Farmans be formally released to ALL the murids who have made sincere, reverent, and rightful requests for guidance that is central to their faith? And Hazar Imam reminded Leaders to do so on 18 March 2025
When will Mr. Talib and LIF respond to the 17 specific questions already submitted in prior communications? - see earlier emails in the last few weeks
⸻
This letter is not personal. It is a formal, principled, and constitutionally grounded appeal—in accordance with Farmans, Bayah, and our Imam’s repeatedly stated guidance on truth, justice, inclusion, and responsibility.
The murids of the Jamat have the right to expect and to hold accountable those who claim to serve in leadership capacities. Institutions must reflect the values they profess, not in rhetoric, but in verifiable action.
We now await your clear, documented, and timely response—not just with words, but with the actions our beloved Imam has asked us all to uphold.
Link to the last letter to LIF -Leaders viewtopic.php?p=73599#p73599
With prayers and in service of Imam and As one Jamat
M. Chatur
-
mahebubchatur
- Posts: 449
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Re: Leaders International Forum - LIF
Letter and requests to Leaders of LIF - AKDN and Constitutional entities of our community
On Thu, 12 Jun 2025 at 08:00, Mahebub Chatur <mahebubchatur@gmail.com> wrote:
**Contradiction Between Stated words and Actions** by Leaders
Malik Talib - LIF Chair says he parks his ego at the door in serving the Jamat and works together by consensus - The words do not match his actions in not responding or giving constitution -LIF
Video
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1932 ... hqfO552USg
AND
Malik Talib is member of following Boards
Malik Talib - He is on Board of the following companies How can & does he devote time to the Jamat entities and what have been and are the conflicts of interest of his businesses and self interest, with those of AKDN and all their connected businesses esp in Canada Congo and globally - Can Malik and LIF -AKDN etc clarify and or investigate & confirm
Here’s the full text-based list of Malik Talib’s board memberships:
Malik Talib - Board Memberships
Corporate
• IWG – Board Director
• Talmont Group, a Vancouver-based real estate and private equity firm
• Director of Decourcey Capital Corp. a capital pool company based in Vancouv
Non-profit/Civic
• Salmon Group – Principal
• King’s Trust Canada – Board Member
• B.C. Children’s Hospital Foundation – Board Member
Others
• United Way - Lower Mainland – Board Member
• Vancouver Foundation – Board Member
• Mulgrave School – Board Member
• LIFT Philanthropy Partners – Board Member
Ismaili
• Rideau Hall Foundation – Chair
• Aga Khan Museum – Board Secretary - Director
• Global Centre for Pluralism – Senior Official
• Ismaili Leaders International Forum – Chair
• Ismaili Imamat – Senior Official
AKF - AKDN - LIF - Ismaili Imamat
Leaders **is not merely about words or promotion—it is about action & exemplification**.
Aga Khan Foundation, under same group of leaders of the Aga Khan Development Network, publicly advocates *Human-Centered Design* as a guiding principle, highlighting **collaboration, community participation, and iterative feedback** as essential components of ethical governance.
As leaders, they are not simply responsible for stating these ideals; they **must actively demonstrate them** in their own actions.
*"By engaging the community in a participatory, collaborative process of co-creation and iterative feedback, Human-Centered Design can help to identify solutions that will solve the root causes of problems and meet important (but sometimes misunderstood) needs."*
However, despite their public commitment to these values, leadership has **failed to respond to multiple requests for transparency and inclusion**, including **17 specific questions, repeated calls for engagement, and directives from His Highness the Aga Khan to provide the amended constitution**. The failure to acknowledge or act on these matters contradicts the very principles they claim to uphold.
Leadership that disregards participation, pluralism, and responsiveness cannot genuinely claim to embrace *Human-Centered Design*. Words without action are **hollow**—and the growing concerns from the community, formal letters requesting intervention, and the recent legal actions in Kenya and India highlight an urgent crisis of governance. Ethical leadership demands **accountability, not exclusion**, **transparency, not silence**, and **participation, not echo chambers**. If leaders do not practice what they promote, their principles become **meaningless rhetoric rather than guiding values**.
This is another latest example from the monthly newsletter released by AKDN AKF today of words not matching fact and action as Imam has asked again on 11 Feb 2025
We request a substantive response from Leaders in control and including from all Leaders who know and if they don’t to ask and share as Imam has asked us all to do
Link https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1932 ... hqfO552USg
M Chatur
Source
(https://akflearninghub.org/initiative/h ... ed-design/)
Leaders of AKF & AKDN states the following
“Human-Centred Design, a recognised approach for creating thoughtful experiences and systems, is a core practice of work at Aga Khan Foundation. We deploy Human-centred design to create innovative development products, systems, services, policies and programs.
The foundation of Human-Centred Design is a first-hand understanding of the human needs and behaviours in the systems being designed.
Throughout the process, the design team works to gather evidence that will inform their decision-making later on. It relies heavily on collaboration from a team, participation from potential end users and stakeholders, a willingness to find the solution through iterative cycles of learning, and a focus on action over planning.
By engaging the community in a participatory, collaborative process of co-creation and iterative feedback, Human-Centred Design can help to identify solutions that will solve the root causes of problems and meet important (but sometimes misunderstood) needs.”
Mahebub Chatur
On Thu, 12 Jun 2025 at 08:00, Mahebub Chatur <mahebubchatur@gmail.com> wrote:
**Contradiction Between Stated words and Actions** by Leaders
Malik Talib - LIF Chair says he parks his ego at the door in serving the Jamat and works together by consensus - The words do not match his actions in not responding or giving constitution -LIF
Video
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1932 ... hqfO552USg
AND
Malik Talib is member of following Boards
Malik Talib - He is on Board of the following companies How can & does he devote time to the Jamat entities and what have been and are the conflicts of interest of his businesses and self interest, with those of AKDN and all their connected businesses esp in Canada Congo and globally - Can Malik and LIF -AKDN etc clarify and or investigate & confirm
Here’s the full text-based list of Malik Talib’s board memberships:
Malik Talib - Board Memberships
Corporate
• IWG – Board Director
• Talmont Group, a Vancouver-based real estate and private equity firm
• Director of Decourcey Capital Corp. a capital pool company based in Vancouv
Non-profit/Civic
• Salmon Group – Principal
• King’s Trust Canada – Board Member
• B.C. Children’s Hospital Foundation – Board Member
Others
• United Way - Lower Mainland – Board Member
• Vancouver Foundation – Board Member
• Mulgrave School – Board Member
• LIFT Philanthropy Partners – Board Member
Ismaili
• Rideau Hall Foundation – Chair
• Aga Khan Museum – Board Secretary - Director
• Global Centre for Pluralism – Senior Official
• Ismaili Leaders International Forum – Chair
• Ismaili Imamat – Senior Official
AKF - AKDN - LIF - Ismaili Imamat
Leaders **is not merely about words or promotion—it is about action & exemplification**.
Aga Khan Foundation, under same group of leaders of the Aga Khan Development Network, publicly advocates *Human-Centered Design* as a guiding principle, highlighting **collaboration, community participation, and iterative feedback** as essential components of ethical governance.
As leaders, they are not simply responsible for stating these ideals; they **must actively demonstrate them** in their own actions.
*"By engaging the community in a participatory, collaborative process of co-creation and iterative feedback, Human-Centered Design can help to identify solutions that will solve the root causes of problems and meet important (but sometimes misunderstood) needs."*
However, despite their public commitment to these values, leadership has **failed to respond to multiple requests for transparency and inclusion**, including **17 specific questions, repeated calls for engagement, and directives from His Highness the Aga Khan to provide the amended constitution**. The failure to acknowledge or act on these matters contradicts the very principles they claim to uphold.
Leadership that disregards participation, pluralism, and responsiveness cannot genuinely claim to embrace *Human-Centered Design*. Words without action are **hollow**—and the growing concerns from the community, formal letters requesting intervention, and the recent legal actions in Kenya and India highlight an urgent crisis of governance. Ethical leadership demands **accountability, not exclusion**, **transparency, not silence**, and **participation, not echo chambers**. If leaders do not practice what they promote, their principles become **meaningless rhetoric rather than guiding values**.
This is another latest example from the monthly newsletter released by AKDN AKF today of words not matching fact and action as Imam has asked again on 11 Feb 2025
We request a substantive response from Leaders in control and including from all Leaders who know and if they don’t to ask and share as Imam has asked us all to do
Link https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1932 ... hqfO552USg
M Chatur
Source
(https://akflearninghub.org/initiative/h ... ed-design/)
Leaders of AKF & AKDN states the following
“Human-Centred Design, a recognised approach for creating thoughtful experiences and systems, is a core practice of work at Aga Khan Foundation. We deploy Human-centred design to create innovative development products, systems, services, policies and programs.
The foundation of Human-Centred Design is a first-hand understanding of the human needs and behaviours in the systems being designed.
Throughout the process, the design team works to gather evidence that will inform their decision-making later on. It relies heavily on collaboration from a team, participation from potential end users and stakeholders, a willingness to find the solution through iterative cycles of learning, and a focus on action over planning.
By engaging the community in a participatory, collaborative process of co-creation and iterative feedback, Human-Centred Design can help to identify solutions that will solve the root causes of problems and meet important (but sometimes misunderstood) needs.”
Mahebub Chatur
-
mahebubchatur
- Posts: 449
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Re: Leaders International Forum - LIF
Subject: Our Leaders -,Our Future Will Be What We Do — or Fail to Do — Today
Subheading: Action, not words, will define the next 5, 10 & 30 years – Reflections after Farman and Bayah on 11 February 2025
Dear All,
Ya Ali Madad.
As we reflect on the past 30 years — and especially in light of the public reaffirmation of Bay‘ah - Allegiance by our leaders on 11 February 2025 — we must ask a central question:
Have we, as a community, and our leaders, truly done what Hazar Imam has repeatedly asked of us in his Farmans?
Mawlana Hazar Imam has consistently emphasised in Farmans the following foundational principles:
• Pluralism — within our Jamat and across societies and cultures
• Decentralisation — of authority, resources, and decision-making
• Empowerment of local communities — to define their needs and manage their budgets and priorities
• Accountability, transparency, and ethical leadership — aligned with Farmans and guided by integrity
Yet, despite decades of clear direction, in Farmans, we continue to witness a reality that contradicts the Imam’s Farmans & vision.
Instead of empowering all local Jamats - communities, we see:
• A centralised concentration of control, within the same group of individuals, who exclude local Jamats from genuine inclusion & participation
• Withholding and filtering of Farmans, in direct violation of Hazar Imam’s guidance to share them freely and openly
• A culture of secrecy, selective communication, and political appointments driven by Greed loyalty, not merit
• Continued denial of the Constitution to murids who request it — despite Farmans & this being a legal and moral right of every Murid
Had Farmans been given taught & honoured, by Leaders today’s Jamats would be:
• Locally empowered and capable of managing their collective needs
• Active participants in shaping their futures
• united, resilient, and spiritually fulfilled
• Advancing the goals of the Golden and Diamond Jubilees, would have been achieved - particularly in pluralism and local empowerment of Jamats — which remain largely unfulfilled
Hazar Imam would not need to repeat his Farmans to Leaders and remind them even to give the constitution to the Jamat on 18 March 2025
The incident in Mozambique, this week where three murids were mistreated shamelessly by Leaders - for simply wishing to see Mawlana Hazar Imam from a distance, - is further stark evidence of a deep and troubling culture & disconnect.
These were not disruptive individuals — they were peaceful, respectful members of the Jamat. Their treatment, however, was one of hostility and exclusion.
This is not an isolated event. It is emblematic of a broader pervasive culture of fear and control — sustained by leadership that, rather than enable change, clings to power and stifles growth.
We must also reflect on the pandemic in this context. It exposed the failure to build the local capacity Hazar Imam envisioned. Why were our communities not empowered to respond with agility and independence, despite decades of instruction to decentralise?
The answers are painfully clear. As I recently shared in a public tweet:
“Hazar Imam continue to repeat his directions on. pluralism, decentralisation, empowerment, and local participation — yet for 30 years, our Jamati institutions have done the opposite. Control is centralised, pluralism rejected Farmans filtered, and community voice silenced.- link below
Today’s institutional culture and those who control is neither pluralistic nor decentralised. The traditional mukhia/panchayat model — historically grounded in community-based problem-solving — has been politicised. Appointments remain self-selecting. Accountability is minimal. The same leadership networks resist change, withhold Farmans, and even restrict access to our Constitution. This needs reform.
This must change. And that change begins with each of us — murids, and all those leaders who truly care about our Imam, his Farmans, and the Jamat’s collective future poverty and wellbeing which Imam has said is a priority 11 Feb 25
We need to continue efforts and
1. Demand and share the Constitution and all Farmans openly, as Hazar Imam has instructed
2. Challenge those who filter or withhold the Imam’s guidance and Jamat’s resources from the Jamat
3. Insist on local Jamat empowerment, real participation, and transparent decision-making
4. Collaborate across Jamats, to ensure that Hazar Imam’s guidance is implemented — not merely quoted
As Hazar Imam has reminded us:
“The future is not tomorrow — the future is now. The past is your present. And your future is what you begin building today.”
If we remain silent, delay action, or allow filtered guidance to persist, in the next 5 10 & 30 years will will be and or do the same — and if so, we will have failed our future our children, our Imam, and our very faith
“It is action that matters — not words or rhetoric. It is your conduct and behaviour that reflects your values, not what you profess publicly.”
The leaders (LIF) who appeared on video on 11 February 2025, pledging on their and our behalf Bay‘ah to the Imam, must now be measured by their actions, not their declarations. If they continue to act in contradiction to Farmans — withholding empowerment, Farmans transparency, and participation — then this is no longer service; it is politics and self interest cloaked in piety.
And as our Imam has warned us:
“Beware of wolves in sheep’s clothing — those who appear to serve but in fact mislead. They steal faith so subtly that you do not even notice.”
Indeed, Imam has made it unambiguous:
• “One who prohibits My Farmans to be read and interpreted is an enemy of the faith.”
• “The main task of missionaries is to interpret My Farmans and explain them to the Jamat.”
• “It is the duty of every Jamat to keep on reminding My Farmans to everyone — young and old.”
• “Live according to what is said in the Ginans and in the Farmans.”
Reference: 101 Farman Proofs – What Hazar Imam Has Said and What Has Not Been Done
Let us change & not waste any more time.
Let us make the next 10 years a time of real progress, rooted not in political loyalty, but in spiritual accountability — by finally doing what our Imam has asked us to do.
The future is not an abstract idea. The future is created by what we do — or fail to do — today.
“Throughout your studies and your youth, adults will tell you that the future is ahead of you.
I want to tell you that the future is what you leave behind you, shaped by every one of your actions and your statements and your decisions.
The future follows behind you in the path that you choose" Aga Khan Maputo
Let us be remembered by our children and grandchildren as those who acted with courage, not complacency. Because not to act — is, in itself, a choice. And that, too, becomes our legacy.
With prayers, concern, and shared responsibility,
Links
Last 30 years
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1938 ... hqfO552USg
Pledges & Bayah on 11 July 2025
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/6p7am204 ... 4k000&dl=0
Bayah - Allegiance - significance
http://ismaili.net/timeline/2025/bayah.pdf
.Beware - .. wolves who appear like lambs. they steal the faith in such a dexterous way that you do not even notice it..
LIF members and Chairman have not responded to requests from Murids for Farmans, constitution passing of Imam closure of Jamat Khannas without Farmans and other specific questions including the shameful treatment of 3 Murids in Mozambique
M Chatur
Subheading: Action, not words, will define the next 5, 10 & 30 years – Reflections after Farman and Bayah on 11 February 2025
Dear All,
Ya Ali Madad.
As we reflect on the past 30 years — and especially in light of the public reaffirmation of Bay‘ah - Allegiance by our leaders on 11 February 2025 — we must ask a central question:
Have we, as a community, and our leaders, truly done what Hazar Imam has repeatedly asked of us in his Farmans?
Mawlana Hazar Imam has consistently emphasised in Farmans the following foundational principles:
• Pluralism — within our Jamat and across societies and cultures
• Decentralisation — of authority, resources, and decision-making
• Empowerment of local communities — to define their needs and manage their budgets and priorities
• Accountability, transparency, and ethical leadership — aligned with Farmans and guided by integrity
Yet, despite decades of clear direction, in Farmans, we continue to witness a reality that contradicts the Imam’s Farmans & vision.
Instead of empowering all local Jamats - communities, we see:
• A centralised concentration of control, within the same group of individuals, who exclude local Jamats from genuine inclusion & participation
• Withholding and filtering of Farmans, in direct violation of Hazar Imam’s guidance to share them freely and openly
• A culture of secrecy, selective communication, and political appointments driven by Greed loyalty, not merit
• Continued denial of the Constitution to murids who request it — despite Farmans & this being a legal and moral right of every Murid
Had Farmans been given taught & honoured, by Leaders today’s Jamats would be:
• Locally empowered and capable of managing their collective needs
• Active participants in shaping their futures
• united, resilient, and spiritually fulfilled
• Advancing the goals of the Golden and Diamond Jubilees, would have been achieved - particularly in pluralism and local empowerment of Jamats — which remain largely unfulfilled
Hazar Imam would not need to repeat his Farmans to Leaders and remind them even to give the constitution to the Jamat on 18 March 2025
The incident in Mozambique, this week where three murids were mistreated shamelessly by Leaders - for simply wishing to see Mawlana Hazar Imam from a distance, - is further stark evidence of a deep and troubling culture & disconnect.
These were not disruptive individuals — they were peaceful, respectful members of the Jamat. Their treatment, however, was one of hostility and exclusion.
This is not an isolated event. It is emblematic of a broader pervasive culture of fear and control — sustained by leadership that, rather than enable change, clings to power and stifles growth.
We must also reflect on the pandemic in this context. It exposed the failure to build the local capacity Hazar Imam envisioned. Why were our communities not empowered to respond with agility and independence, despite decades of instruction to decentralise?
The answers are painfully clear. As I recently shared in a public tweet:
“Hazar Imam continue to repeat his directions on. pluralism, decentralisation, empowerment, and local participation — yet for 30 years, our Jamati institutions have done the opposite. Control is centralised, pluralism rejected Farmans filtered, and community voice silenced.- link below Today’s institutional culture and those who control is neither pluralistic nor decentralised. The traditional mukhia/panchayat model — historically grounded in community-based problem-solving — has been politicised. Appointments remain self-selecting. Accountability is minimal. The same leadership networks resist change, withhold Farmans, and even restrict access to our Constitution. This needs reform.
This must change. And that change begins with each of us — murids, and all those leaders who truly care about our Imam, his Farmans, and the Jamat’s collective future poverty and wellbeing which Imam has said is a priority 11 Feb 25
We need to continue efforts and
1. Demand and share the Constitution and all Farmans openly, as Hazar Imam has instructed
2. Challenge those who filter or withhold the Imam’s guidance and Jamat’s resources from the Jamat
3. Insist on local Jamat empowerment, real participation, and transparent decision-making
4. Collaborate across Jamats, to ensure that Hazar Imam’s guidance is implemented — not merely quoted
As Hazar Imam has reminded us:
“The future is not tomorrow — the future is now. The past is your present. And your future is what you begin building today.”
If we remain silent, delay action, or allow filtered guidance to persist, in the next 5 10 & 30 years will will be and or do the same — and if so, we will have failed our future our children, our Imam, and our very faith
“It is action that matters — not words or rhetoric. It is your conduct and behaviour that reflects your values, not what you profess publicly.”
The leaders (LIF) who appeared on video on 11 February 2025, pledging on their and our behalf Bay‘ah to the Imam, must now be measured by their actions, not their declarations. If they continue to act in contradiction to Farmans — withholding empowerment, Farmans transparency, and participation — then this is no longer service; it is politics and self interest cloaked in piety.
And as our Imam has warned us:
“Beware of wolves in sheep’s clothing — those who appear to serve but in fact mislead. They steal faith so subtly that you do not even notice.”
Indeed, Imam has made it unambiguous:
• “One who prohibits My Farmans to be read and interpreted is an enemy of the faith.”
• “The main task of missionaries is to interpret My Farmans and explain them to the Jamat.”
• “It is the duty of every Jamat to keep on reminding My Farmans to everyone — young and old.”
• “Live according to what is said in the Ginans and in the Farmans.”
Reference: 101 Farman Proofs – What Hazar Imam Has Said and What Has Not Been DoneLet us change & not waste any more time.
Let us make the next 10 years a time of real progress, rooted not in political loyalty, but in spiritual accountability — by finally doing what our Imam has asked us to do.
The future is not an abstract idea. The future is created by what we do — or fail to do — today.
“Throughout your studies and your youth, adults will tell you that the future is ahead of you.
I want to tell you that the future is what you leave behind you, shaped by every one of your actions and your statements and your decisions.
The future follows behind you in the path that you choose" Aga Khan Maputo
Let us be remembered by our children and grandchildren as those who acted with courage, not complacency. Because not to act — is, in itself, a choice. And that, too, becomes our legacy.
With prayers, concern, and shared responsibility,
Links
Last 30 years
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1938 ... hqfO552USg
Pledges & Bayah on 11 July 2025
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/6p7am204 ... 4k000&dl=0
Bayah - Allegiance - significance
http://ismaili.net/timeline/2025/bayah.pdf
.Beware - .. wolves who appear like lambs. they steal the faith in such a dexterous way that you do not even notice it..
LIF members and Chairman have not responded to requests from Murids for Farmans, constitution passing of Imam closure of Jamat Khannas without Farmans and other specific questions including the shameful treatment of 3 Murids in Mozambique
M Chatur
-
mahebubchatur
- Posts: 449
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Re: Leaders International Forum - LIF - Kenya
Subject: Urgent Request for Transparency: AKDN’s Role in Kenyan Development & USAid Context
Dear LIF including Noorani Family and All,
Warm greetings.
This letter & further requests follows significant developments reported in Kenyan media—including Daily Nation and KTN News—regarding the closure of USAID development programmes in Kenya. Links below
The implications are wide-ranging and will undoubtedly affect not only public services in Kenya and East Africa, but also institutions affiliated with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), which has long partnered with U.S. and European donors, including USAID.
In light of this, and in the interest of transparency, accountability, and sustainability—values that our Imamat has consistently promoted in Farmans —we ask the following based on public evidence and current context:
⸻
1. US Funds via AKDN Entities in Kenya
AKDN agencies—such as the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) and Aga Khan Health Services (AKHS)—have been significant recipients of U.S. donor funds, including from USAID, AFD (France), the Hilton Foundation, and others. They have managed projects in:
• Community health, including maternal and child care (e.g. Mama na Mtoto programme),
• Support for HIV-affected children and families,
• Education, agriculture, and civil society strengthening.
These projects are commendable—but they also underscore the dependency on external aid, which the SDG framework seeks to reduce by 2030.
⸻
AKDN’s Dual Role in Kenya: Development + Commerce
AKDN operates in Kenya through both philanthropic and commercial arms, with significant assets under management.
a. Philanthropic Arm – (eg AKF, AKES)
• Reaches ~2.2 million people annually in health, education, and civil society.
• Records 900,000+ annual health visits, supports 48,000 preschoolers, and reaches ~1 million through civil society programmes.
• Example: Mombasa Hospital was upgraded in a $12.2 million project, with AKDN contributing $3.7 million.
b. Commercial Arm – (AKFED/IPS, TPS Eastern Africa)
• Estimated annual revenue in Kenya: USD $940 million.
• Key investments include:
• Nation Media Group (44–45% AKFED ownership),
• Serena Hotels (64.6% AKFED ownership),
• Diamond Trust Bank, Jubilee Insurance, Frigoken, Premier Foods, and energy and telecom holdings.
These businesses are largely funded through community capital, loans, grants, and international development partnerships (World Bank, IFC, etc.).
⸻
Estimated Annual Contributions
Component
Approx. Annual Value
AKF & Partner Programme Funding
USD $50–80 million (external grants)
AKHS Infrastructure Investment
USD $3.7 million (AKDN contribution to hospital upgrade)
AKFED Commercial Revenue
USD $940 million annually (Kenya only)
Total Revenue by AKDN entities ?
Total funds collected from Jamat ?
Total Loans ?
Total Grants ?
⸻
It is also important to know & emphasize that the Ismaili Jamat in Kenya, referred to internally as the Jamat or Jamati entities, is itself a constitutional entity within the global Ismaili framework. These community structures are not separate from AKDN but form part of its foundational support system.
The time, knowledge, voluntary service, and financial contributions of the Jamat underpin much of AKDN’s presence and impact in Kenya. This relationship has been clearly afirmed by Mawlana Hazar Imam himself, in constitution & stated that “the work of the AKDN would not be possible without the support of the community.” Time Knowledge Volunteers and Funds to & in name of Imam
This is referenced in the following video tweet:
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1940541207970828762
Attached is also a chart illustrating the governance relationship between the Jamat, its constitutional institutions, and the AKDN.
It must therefore be recognized that the Jamat is not only a beneficiary but a primary stakeholder, whose contributions as directed by Imam warrant transparency and accountability in decision-making and reporting.
Governance and Transparency Concerns
There are increasing public and legal concerns regarding secrecy, opaque governance, and a lack of transparent financial disclosure within constitutional institutions of the community by Leaders in control for decades
• Key Figures in and re Kenya
• Mr. Amin Mawji – Diplomatic -Head - Representative for AKDN in Kenya & Uganda,
• Mr. Sultan Allana – recently as envoy & Director of AKFED; also Chairman of Habib Bank (Pakistan) and involved with Diamond Trust Bank (Kenya),
• National Council Leadership – President of the Aga Khan Council in Kenya and members of the de facto executive board, not all publicly disclosed. (chart below)
Mr Malik Talib Shafik Sachedina M Keshavjee Nazim Ahmad E Rupani Aly Mawji - Leaders International Forum Executive
• Legal Proceedings:
A current court case in Kenya raises serious questions about missing documentation, undefined director control, and efforts by respondents to have the case dismissed on technicalities—without providing material disclosures. There are allegations of millions—if not billions—unaccounted for within community-linked entities. Requests by community to unresponsive same Leaders are ignored
⸻
Request for Leaders Response
In light of these facts and the urgent development challenges facing Kenya and East Africa, and in the context of the sustainability principles of our Imamat, we respectfully request answers to the following:
A. Funding & Leverage
• Please provide figures for total external donor funding (USAID, AFD, etc.) received by AKDN agencies in Kenya over the last 5–10 years.
• How much has the community itself contributed—in capital, donations, or volunteer hours—to AKDN’s efforts in Kenya?
B. Impact & Outcomes
• Which specific communities have benefited (by county, region, or Jamat)?
• How many communities have been empowered to self-sustainability without ongoing aid?
• What tangible reductions in aid-dependency have occurred, in line with SDG 2030?
C. Revenue & Reinvestment
• Please confirm the actual revenue from AKFED commercial entities (Serena, Nation Media, DTB, etc.).
• What percentage of these profits have been reinvested into local, inclusive development, and what is the mechanism for this reinvestment? Are the Jamats fully informed and empowered locally
D. Governance & Oversight
• Who sits on the AKDN and AKFED boards relevant to Kenya in Kenya and Ismaili Imamat and globally
• What mechanisms exist for fully informing abd investigating, concerns especially by the Ismaili community, which—per the Constitution—Ismaili community is a key stakeholder?
E. Court Case - Accountability
• What is the community leadership’s response to the allegations raised by the community and they, in the ongoing legal case in Kenya regarding eg misappropriated funds, secrecy, and the absence of board disclosures?
⸻
Final Note
The institutions of AKDN do important work—but the foundations of legitimacy, integrity, and accountability must be according to Farmans & clear.
Ismaili community, as a constitutional stakeholder in AKDN, has a legal and moral to be fully informed included and engaged.
We ask not to criticize, but to ensure the principles in Farmans of best practice, transparency, and long-term sustainability are being upheld. In the words of Mawlana Hazar Imam:
“Sincere effort is success, regardless of outcome.”
We request again full and constructive response, and trust that our leadership will honour the trust and contributions of the Jamat by responding to this request transparently.
With respect and Ya Ali Madad,
Video Hazar Imam
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1940 ... hqfO552USg
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1940 ... hqfO552USg
Chart
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1573 ... 03104?s=12
Mahebub Chatur
On Wed, 2 Jul 2025 at 03:09, Mahebub Chatur <mahebubchatur@gmail.com> wrote:
Dear All, including Noorani family
Another clear and powerful Farman from Hazar Imam His who advises unequivocally about the need for real change—when corruption becomes pervasive which it has.
He reminds us clearly that when a community -Jamats come together, they can reject what has not worked and instead choose to build a new future with new people—people they trust people they choose and people they want to work with.
Imam is saying clearly that Change must begin with us. It is not only our right but our responsibility to reject systems and leaders that no longer serve the community’s interests. Only by coming together, honestly and courageously, can we create the future we want—grounded in trust, integrity, and hope.
Leaders in control for decades are still withholding our constitution Farmans and resources.
With this spirit, I share this important message from Hazar Imam to us all
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1940 ... hqfO552USg
Video clip of Hazar Imam
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1940 ... hqfO552USg
References
https://x.com/citizentvkenya/status/194 ... hqfO552USg
https://the.akdn/en/where-we-work/easte ... hatgpt.com
https://the.akdn/en/where-we-work/easte ... hatgpt.com
https://www.afd.fr/en/actualites/afd-ag ... hatgpt.com
https://www.afd.fr/en/actualites/afd-ag ... hatgpt.com
https://the.akdn/en/resources-media/res ... hatgpt.com
https://www.akfusa.org/our-stories/comm ... hatgpt.com
Dear LIF including Noorani Family and All,
Warm greetings.
This letter & further requests follows significant developments reported in Kenyan media—including Daily Nation and KTN News—regarding the closure of USAID development programmes in Kenya. Links below
The implications are wide-ranging and will undoubtedly affect not only public services in Kenya and East Africa, but also institutions affiliated with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), which has long partnered with U.S. and European donors, including USAID.
In light of this, and in the interest of transparency, accountability, and sustainability—values that our Imamat has consistently promoted in Farmans —we ask the following based on public evidence and current context:
⸻
1. US Funds via AKDN Entities in KenyaAKDN agencies—such as the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) and Aga Khan Health Services (AKHS)—have been significant recipients of U.S. donor funds, including from USAID, AFD (France), the Hilton Foundation, and others. They have managed projects in:
• Community health, including maternal and child care (e.g. Mama na Mtoto programme),
• Support for HIV-affected children and families,
• Education, agriculture, and civil society strengthening.
These projects are commendable—but they also underscore the dependency on external aid, which the SDG framework seeks to reduce by 2030.
⸻
AKDN’s Dual Role in Kenya: Development + CommerceAKDN operates in Kenya through both philanthropic and commercial arms, with significant assets under management.
a. Philanthropic Arm – (eg AKF, AKES)
• Reaches ~2.2 million people annually in health, education, and civil society.
• Records 900,000+ annual health visits, supports 48,000 preschoolers, and reaches ~1 million through civil society programmes.
• Example: Mombasa Hospital was upgraded in a $12.2 million project, with AKDN contributing $3.7 million.
b. Commercial Arm – (AKFED/IPS, TPS Eastern Africa)
• Estimated annual revenue in Kenya: USD $940 million.
• Key investments include:
• Nation Media Group (44–45% AKFED ownership),
• Serena Hotels (64.6% AKFED ownership),
• Diamond Trust Bank, Jubilee Insurance, Frigoken, Premier Foods, and energy and telecom holdings.
These businesses are largely funded through community capital, loans, grants, and international development partnerships (World Bank, IFC, etc.).
⸻
Estimated Annual ContributionsComponent
Approx. Annual Value
AKF & Partner Programme Funding
USD $50–80 million (external grants)
AKHS Infrastructure Investment
USD $3.7 million (AKDN contribution to hospital upgrade)
AKFED Commercial Revenue
USD $940 million annually (Kenya only)
Total Revenue by AKDN entities ?
Total funds collected from Jamat ?
Total Loans ?
Total Grants ?
⸻
It is also important to know & emphasize that the Ismaili Jamat in Kenya, referred to internally as the Jamat or Jamati entities, is itself a constitutional entity within the global Ismaili framework. These community structures are not separate from AKDN but form part of its foundational support system.
The time, knowledge, voluntary service, and financial contributions of the Jamat underpin much of AKDN’s presence and impact in Kenya. This relationship has been clearly afirmed by Mawlana Hazar Imam himself, in constitution & stated that “the work of the AKDN would not be possible without the support of the community.” Time Knowledge Volunteers and Funds to & in name of Imam
This is referenced in the following video tweet:
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1940541207970828762Attached is also a chart illustrating the governance relationship between the Jamat, its constitutional institutions, and the AKDN.
It must therefore be recognized that the Jamat is not only a beneficiary but a primary stakeholder, whose contributions as directed by Imam warrant transparency and accountability in decision-making and reporting.
Governance and Transparency ConcernsThere are increasing public and legal concerns regarding secrecy, opaque governance, and a lack of transparent financial disclosure within constitutional institutions of the community by Leaders in control for decades
• Key Figures in and re Kenya
• Mr. Amin Mawji – Diplomatic -Head - Representative for AKDN in Kenya & Uganda,
• Mr. Sultan Allana – recently as envoy & Director of AKFED; also Chairman of Habib Bank (Pakistan) and involved with Diamond Trust Bank (Kenya),
• National Council Leadership – President of the Aga Khan Council in Kenya and members of the de facto executive board, not all publicly disclosed. (chart below)
Mr Malik Talib Shafik Sachedina M Keshavjee Nazim Ahmad E Rupani Aly Mawji - Leaders International Forum Executive
• Legal Proceedings:
A current court case in Kenya raises serious questions about missing documentation, undefined director control, and efforts by respondents to have the case dismissed on technicalities—without providing material disclosures. There are allegations of millions—if not billions—unaccounted for within community-linked entities. Requests by community to unresponsive same Leaders are ignored
⸻
Request for Leaders ResponseIn light of these facts and the urgent development challenges facing Kenya and East Africa, and in the context of the sustainability principles of our Imamat, we respectfully request answers to the following:
A. Funding & Leverage
• Please provide figures for total external donor funding (USAID, AFD, etc.) received by AKDN agencies in Kenya over the last 5–10 years.
• How much has the community itself contributed—in capital, donations, or volunteer hours—to AKDN’s efforts in Kenya?
B. Impact & Outcomes
• Which specific communities have benefited (by county, region, or Jamat)?
• How many communities have been empowered to self-sustainability without ongoing aid?
• What tangible reductions in aid-dependency have occurred, in line with SDG 2030?
C. Revenue & Reinvestment
• Please confirm the actual revenue from AKFED commercial entities (Serena, Nation Media, DTB, etc.).
• What percentage of these profits have been reinvested into local, inclusive development, and what is the mechanism for this reinvestment? Are the Jamats fully informed and empowered locally
D. Governance & Oversight
• Who sits on the AKDN and AKFED boards relevant to Kenya in Kenya and Ismaili Imamat and globally
• What mechanisms exist for fully informing abd investigating, concerns especially by the Ismaili community, which—per the Constitution—Ismaili community is a key stakeholder?
E. Court Case - Accountability
• What is the community leadership’s response to the allegations raised by the community and they, in the ongoing legal case in Kenya regarding eg misappropriated funds, secrecy, and the absence of board disclosures?
⸻
Final NoteThe institutions of AKDN do important work—but the foundations of legitimacy, integrity, and accountability must be according to Farmans & clear.
Ismaili community, as a constitutional stakeholder in AKDN, has a legal and moral to be fully informed included and engaged.
We ask not to criticize, but to ensure the principles in Farmans of best practice, transparency, and long-term sustainability are being upheld. In the words of Mawlana Hazar Imam:
“Sincere effort is success, regardless of outcome.”
We request again full and constructive response, and trust that our leadership will honour the trust and contributions of the Jamat by responding to this request transparently.
With respect and Ya Ali Madad,
Video Hazar Imam
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1940 ... hqfO552USg
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1940 ... hqfO552USg
Chart
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1573 ... 03104?s=12
Mahebub Chatur
On Wed, 2 Jul 2025 at 03:09, Mahebub Chatur <mahebubchatur@gmail.com> wrote:
Dear All, including Noorani family
Another clear and powerful Farman from Hazar Imam His who advises unequivocally about the need for real change—when corruption becomes pervasive which it has.
He reminds us clearly that when a community -Jamats come together, they can reject what has not worked and instead choose to build a new future with new people—people they trust people they choose and people they want to work with.
Imam is saying clearly that Change must begin with us. It is not only our right but our responsibility to reject systems and leaders that no longer serve the community’s interests. Only by coming together, honestly and courageously, can we create the future we want—grounded in trust, integrity, and hope.
Leaders in control for decades are still withholding our constitution Farmans and resources.
With this spirit, I share this important message from Hazar Imam to us all
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1940 ... hqfO552USg
Video clip of Hazar Imam
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1940 ... hqfO552USg
References
https://x.com/citizentvkenya/status/194 ... hqfO552USg
https://the.akdn/en/where-we-work/easte ... hatgpt.com
https://the.akdn/en/where-we-work/easte ... hatgpt.com
https://www.afd.fr/en/actualites/afd-ag ... hatgpt.com
https://www.afd.fr/en/actualites/afd-ag ... hatgpt.com
https://the.akdn/en/resources-media/res ... hatgpt.com
https://www.akfusa.org/our-stories/comm ... hatgpt.com
-
mahebubchatur
- Posts: 449
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Leaders International Forum - LIF - President UK
Open letter regarding the actions and words of the President of the Aga Khan Council, United Kingdom - Naushad Jivraj
Member of LIF and AKF UK
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Dear all Leaders of the Jamat,
Dear Noorani Family,
& Dear President Naushad Jivraj and Members of AKF and LIF Boards
In a this promotional video below - President Naushad Jivraj, says - with with seeming conviction & confidence: “We are one Jamat… we are brothers and sisters… He embraces unity and pluralism taught by Shah Karim Shah
These are powerful words. But matching his actions with his words and for those eg in Coventry and the Dholka Jamat— His words don’t just ring hollow—they expose a painful contradiction between what is preached and what is practiced
Actions, as Mawlana Hazar Imam said on 11th February 2024, are what truly matter. Not words - Link to Farman below)
The Reality Behind the Words
Despite public proclamations of unity and pluralism, President Jivraj’s actions speak volumes—of exclusion, arrogance silencing, and disregard -Not pluralism unity one family one Jamat
• He closed the Coventry Jamatkhana, displacing a historic and diverse group of murids from their spiritual home. This wasn’t done with genuine dialogue or compassion. Instead, they were told—shockingly—& that they could go and pray in a church if they didn’t like it.
• He has withheld Farmans, by Mawlana Hazar Imam, and denied access to murids—even when they respectfully requested them, citing their right under the Ismaili Constitution.
• Speaking of which, he has refused to share the Ismaili Constitution with the Jamat, despite Hazar Imam having reminded institutions to do so.
• On 11 February 2024, President Jivraj stood before the UK Jamat and renewed our collective Bay’ah, pledging that he would follow the guidance and Farmans of Hazar Imam “with love, devotion and without question.”
And yet, today, he does the opposite—withholding, concealing, and failing to act on that very guidance.
Is this the unity he speaks of? Is this how “brothers and sisters” are treated? And this is clearly not pluralism -
What About Pluralism?
President Jivraj professes that he embraces pluralism—citing our beloved Mawlana Shah Karim’s lifelong commitment to pluralism.
But where is it, where was pluralism when the Dholka Jamat were denied formal appointments of their Mukhi-Kamadia, excluded from Jamatkhana spaces, and left without recognition for years?
A detailed letter about their plight, signed and sent on 7 April 2025, was respectfully forwarded to President Jivraj and requested to be shared with H.H. Prince Rahim Aga Khan, given the grave nature of the injustices raised. There has been no reply, no acknowledgment, no compassion. That is not pluralism, brotherly !!!???
We ask again: are we truly brothers and sisters when our cries are ignored? Is this unity when letters about injustice go unanswered?
Accountability Matters
President Jivraj cannot continue to speak of brotherhood, unity, and pluralism while taking actions that contradict every one of those values in Farmans
To use Hazar Imam’s words as a shield, while undermining His guidance in practice, is a betrayal of the legal amanat (sacred trust) he holds.
This is not a personal attack. It is a heartfelt appeal for truth, justice, and the dignity of our Jamat.
It is the right of every murid to access their Imam’s Farmans guidance. It is the right of every murid to pray in a space where they are respected, not displaced. They cannot close without consent and a Farman
Words vs Action
Let us remember: on 11th February 2024, Hazar Imam clearly said:
“It is action & behaviours —not words—that matter.”
President Jivraj’s words in the video are not reflected in his actions. He speaks of the Jamat as one family, but has presided over division, displacement, and disempowerment. And when questioned, he offers silence, not answers.
This is not leadership. This is contradiction.
Further Plea
To our community, and to our leaders: we ask for honesty, humility, and accountability. Not scripted videos. Rhetoric and words - Not silence.
To President Jivraj: if you truly believe we are one Jamat—brothers and sisters—show it. Return to the values of Farmans truth, transparency, respect & pluralism
Share the Farmans.
Share the Constitution.
Reopen Coventry or sit down with those displaced in sincere dialogue.
Respond to the Dholka letter I sent via you, with courage.
Respond to all questions pending
Fulfill the pledges you made & on behalf of the Jamat - renewed on 11 Feb 2025
If not, please step aside, and allow others who will lead with Farmans with action—that match their words - not just words & rhetoric
With respect and deep concern,
Link to tweet & video
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1941 ... hqfO552USg
Mahebub Chatur
Member of LIF and AKF UK
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Dear all Leaders of the Jamat,
Dear Noorani Family,
& Dear President Naushad Jivraj and Members of AKF and LIF Boards
In a this promotional video below - President Naushad Jivraj, says - with with seeming conviction & confidence: “We are one Jamat… we are brothers and sisters… He embraces unity and pluralism taught by Shah Karim Shah
These are powerful words. But matching his actions with his words and for those eg in Coventry and the Dholka Jamat— His words don’t just ring hollow—they expose a painful contradiction between what is preached and what is practiced
Actions, as Mawlana Hazar Imam said on 11th February 2024, are what truly matter. Not words - Link to Farman below)
The Reality Behind the Words
Despite public proclamations of unity and pluralism, President Jivraj’s actions speak volumes—of exclusion, arrogance silencing, and disregard -Not pluralism unity one family one Jamat
• He closed the Coventry Jamatkhana, displacing a historic and diverse group of murids from their spiritual home. This wasn’t done with genuine dialogue or compassion. Instead, they were told—shockingly—& that they could go and pray in a church if they didn’t like it.
• He has withheld Farmans, by Mawlana Hazar Imam, and denied access to murids—even when they respectfully requested them, citing their right under the Ismaili Constitution.
• Speaking of which, he has refused to share the Ismaili Constitution with the Jamat, despite Hazar Imam having reminded institutions to do so.
• On 11 February 2024, President Jivraj stood before the UK Jamat and renewed our collective Bay’ah, pledging that he would follow the guidance and Farmans of Hazar Imam “with love, devotion and without question.”
And yet, today, he does the opposite—withholding, concealing, and failing to act on that very guidance.
Is this the unity he speaks of? Is this how “brothers and sisters” are treated? And this is clearly not pluralism -
What About Pluralism?
President Jivraj professes that he embraces pluralism—citing our beloved Mawlana Shah Karim’s lifelong commitment to pluralism.
But where is it, where was pluralism when the Dholka Jamat were denied formal appointments of their Mukhi-Kamadia, excluded from Jamatkhana spaces, and left without recognition for years?
A detailed letter about their plight, signed and sent on 7 April 2025, was respectfully forwarded to President Jivraj and requested to be shared with H.H. Prince Rahim Aga Khan, given the grave nature of the injustices raised. There has been no reply, no acknowledgment, no compassion. That is not pluralism, brotherly !!!???
We ask again: are we truly brothers and sisters when our cries are ignored? Is this unity when letters about injustice go unanswered?
Accountability Matters
President Jivraj cannot continue to speak of brotherhood, unity, and pluralism while taking actions that contradict every one of those values in Farmans
To use Hazar Imam’s words as a shield, while undermining His guidance in practice, is a betrayal of the legal amanat (sacred trust) he holds.
This is not a personal attack. It is a heartfelt appeal for truth, justice, and the dignity of our Jamat.
It is the right of every murid to access their Imam’s Farmans guidance. It is the right of every murid to pray in a space where they are respected, not displaced. They cannot close without consent and a Farman
Words vs Action
Let us remember: on 11th February 2024, Hazar Imam clearly said:
“It is action & behaviours —not words—that matter.”
President Jivraj’s words in the video are not reflected in his actions. He speaks of the Jamat as one family, but has presided over division, displacement, and disempowerment. And when questioned, he offers silence, not answers.
This is not leadership. This is contradiction.
Further Plea
To our community, and to our leaders: we ask for honesty, humility, and accountability. Not scripted videos. Rhetoric and words - Not silence.
To President Jivraj: if you truly believe we are one Jamat—brothers and sisters—show it. Return to the values of Farmans truth, transparency, respect & pluralism
Share the Farmans.
Share the Constitution.
Reopen Coventry or sit down with those displaced in sincere dialogue.
Respond to the Dholka letter I sent via you, with courage.
Respond to all questions pending
Fulfill the pledges you made & on behalf of the Jamat - renewed on 11 Feb 2025
If not, please step aside, and allow others who will lead with Farmans with action—that match their words - not just words & rhetoric
With respect and deep concern,
Link to tweet & video
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1941 ... hqfO552USg
Mahebub Chatur
-
mahebubchatur
- Posts: 449
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Re: Leaders International Forum - LIF - Reminder & requests
Dear LIF Members including the Noorani Family, & ALL
I wanted to share touching moments captured in a short video (below) — moments that reflect something rare, pure, and deeply moving.
The clip shows Prince Rahim Aga Khan, before he became Hazar Imam, during a visit to northern Pakistan.
In it, he meets an elderly woman in a wheelchair — a murid visibly moved by the presence of a Noorani family member.
What Prince Rahim offers her is not protocol or formality, but genuine love and empathy.
He pauses, sits beside her patiently, and takes time to connect — moments that embody the true spirit of love, humility, and service.
Next to him sits a religious leader, possibly a Mukhi Saheb, who at first seems hesitant, but then also reflects compassion and presence.
Around them, one can feel a sense of warmth, tenderness, and respect.
But standing behind them is Shafik Sachedina, whose body language says something very different.
He appears impatient — placing his hand on his face, looking around, then lightly tapping Prince Rahim on the back, seemingly nudging him to move on.
There was no security issue, no reason to hurry.
Just a striking lack of empathy, awareness, and love for the Jamat.
Instead of supporting Prince Rahim’s compassion, he displays visible irritation — a stark contrast to the conduct expected from someone who has held a senior leadership role for decades.
Shafik Sachedina is also part of the leadership group that continues to withhold the Ismaili Constitution — and several among them, including him, are currently in France.
This moment raises deeper questions:
Why have such beautiful, spontaneous, heartfelt encounters between the Noorani family and the Jamat become so rare?
Why are interactions now mostly orchestrated, formal, and tightly controlled?
Why are the sincere voices of grassroots murids kept at a distance?
These are not new questions — they are sincere reminders of long-standing concerns, still unanswered.
Let us hold onto and reflect upon the spirit shown by Prince Rahim in this clip.
It is that spirit of love and humility that truly connects the Imam and the Jamat.
Warm regards,
Enjoy & Share
https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1943 ... hqfO552USg
I wanted to share touching moments captured in a short video (below) — moments that reflect something rare, pure, and deeply moving.
The clip shows Prince Rahim Aga Khan, before he became Hazar Imam, during a visit to northern Pakistan.
In it, he meets an elderly woman in a wheelchair — a murid visibly moved by the presence of a Noorani family member.
What Prince Rahim offers her is not protocol or formality, but genuine love and empathy.
He pauses, sits beside her patiently, and takes time to connect — moments that embody the true spirit of love, humility, and service.
Next to him sits a religious leader, possibly a Mukhi Saheb, who at first seems hesitant, but then also reflects compassion and presence.
Around them, one can feel a sense of warmth, tenderness, and respect.
But standing behind them is Shafik Sachedina, whose body language says something very different.
He appears impatient — placing his hand on his face, looking around, then lightly tapping Prince Rahim on the back, seemingly nudging him to move on.
There was no security issue, no reason to hurry.
Just a striking lack of empathy, awareness, and love for the Jamat.
Instead of supporting Prince Rahim’s compassion, he displays visible irritation — a stark contrast to the conduct expected from someone who has held a senior leadership role for decades.
Shafik Sachedina is also part of the leadership group that continues to withhold the Ismaili Constitution — and several among them, including him, are currently in France.
This moment raises deeper questions:
Why have such beautiful, spontaneous, heartfelt encounters between the Noorani family and the Jamat become so rare?
Why are interactions now mostly orchestrated, formal, and tightly controlled?
Why are the sincere voices of grassroots murids kept at a distance?
These are not new questions — they are sincere reminders of long-standing concerns, still unanswered.
Let us hold onto and reflect upon the spirit shown by Prince Rahim in this clip.
It is that spirit of love and humility that truly connects the Imam and the Jamat.
Warm regards,
Enjoy & Share https://x.com/chaturmahebub/status/1943 ... hqfO552USg
-
mahebubchatur
- Posts: 449
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Re: Leaders International Forum - LIF
Dear All Members of LIF, including members of the Councils IIS & DJI
I refer you to the following & look forward to a response
Reflections
By M. Chatur | @chaturmahebub
Link to full reflection & video clips
Dear Brothers Sisters, & All
Ya Ali Madad.
I am delighted to share with you my personal reflections on the recent Didar of Mawlana Shah Rahim, our 50th Imam, during his historic visit to France from July 11th to 13th, 2025.
The reflection captures:
The emotional and spiritual depth of the Didar ceremony itself,
The blessing of new Farmans and messages shared by the Imam,
And a number of notable changes in style, tone, and symbolism under the leadership of Mawlana Shah Rahim, compared to previous Didars.
Notable Changes Observed
Some of the meaningful differences I reflect on include:
Hazar Imam sitting in the front seat of the vehicle and opening his own door.
Wearing a newly designed chain of office instead of the traditional robe.
A more visibly emotional and accessible presence, including moments of shared grief and tears.
Powerful messages affirming pluralism, ethical leaders and the inclusion of multifaith families.
Ongoing Concerns: Culture of Leaders
At the same time, this reflection also highlights long-standing issues within our institutional leadership:
The visible continuation of control culture, most notably through the actions of Mr. Shafik Sachedina at the farewell ceremony, which mirrored past incidents of overreach and exclusion.
The painful exclusion of dozens of murids from the Didar — including elderly individuals and those who had travelled long distances — left standing outside without compassion or explanation.
These moments raise difficult but necessary questions about how far Farmans are being followed, and whether institutional behavior truly reflects the Imam’s guidance.
A Call for the Constitution and all Farmans as directed by Hazar Imam
As we move forward, it is vital that:
All Farmans delivered during this visit — including at the Didar, the lunch with leaders, the diplomatic engagements, and any institutional gatherings — be shared fully and unconditionally with the entire Jamat.
The long-withheld Ismaili Constitution and past Farmans also be made accessible, in the spirit of Imam’s recent guidance: 18 March &
“Our future is today.”
These are not just historical records — they are our living guidance, future and must be available to all murids.
I hope this reflection inspires honest dialogue and renewed commitment to justice, inclusion, and pluralism in our community life.
Anyone can response here or online at the link viewtopic.php?p=73808#p73808
With love and respect,
M. Chatur
Read the full reflection and watch video clips here
viewtopic.php?p=73808#p73808
M Chatur
I refer you to the following & look forward to a response
Reflections
By M. Chatur | @chaturmahebub
Link to full reflection & video clips
Dear Brothers Sisters, & All
Ya Ali Madad.
I am delighted to share with you my personal reflections on the recent Didar of Mawlana Shah Rahim, our 50th Imam, during his historic visit to France from July 11th to 13th, 2025.
The reflection captures:
The emotional and spiritual depth of the Didar ceremony itself,
The blessing of new Farmans and messages shared by the Imam,
And a number of notable changes in style, tone, and symbolism under the leadership of Mawlana Shah Rahim, compared to previous Didars.
Notable Changes Observed
Some of the meaningful differences I reflect on include:
Hazar Imam sitting in the front seat of the vehicle and opening his own door.
Wearing a newly designed chain of office instead of the traditional robe.
A more visibly emotional and accessible presence, including moments of shared grief and tears.
Powerful messages affirming pluralism, ethical leaders and the inclusion of multifaith families.
Ongoing Concerns: Culture of Leaders
At the same time, this reflection also highlights long-standing issues within our institutional leadership:
The visible continuation of control culture, most notably through the actions of Mr. Shafik Sachedina at the farewell ceremony, which mirrored past incidents of overreach and exclusion.
The painful exclusion of dozens of murids from the Didar — including elderly individuals and those who had travelled long distances — left standing outside without compassion or explanation.
These moments raise difficult but necessary questions about how far Farmans are being followed, and whether institutional behavior truly reflects the Imam’s guidance.
A Call for the Constitution and all Farmans as directed by Hazar Imam
As we move forward, it is vital that:
All Farmans delivered during this visit — including at the Didar, the lunch with leaders, the diplomatic engagements, and any institutional gatherings — be shared fully and unconditionally with the entire Jamat.
The long-withheld Ismaili Constitution and past Farmans also be made accessible, in the spirit of Imam’s recent guidance: 18 March &
“Our future is today.”
These are not just historical records — they are our living guidance, future and must be available to all murids.
I hope this reflection inspires honest dialogue and renewed commitment to justice, inclusion, and pluralism in our community life.
Anyone can response here or online at the link viewtopic.php?p=73808#p73808
With love and respect,
M. Chatur
Read the full reflection and watch video clips hereviewtopic.php?p=73808#p73808
M Chatur
-
mahebubchatur
- Posts: 449
- Joined: Mon Jan 13, 2014 7:01 pm
Re: Leaders International Forum - LIF
Mr Malik Talib Chairman of LIF - Dubai & members of Board of LIF
Dear All
I am attaching below the remarks made by Mr. Malik Talib, Chairman of the Ismaili Leaders’ International Forum (LIF), at the opening of the Global Encounters Festival. While his words strongly echo the values expressed by Mawlana Hazar Imam, Prince Aly Muhammad, and others — highlighting unity, service, excellence, and youth empowerment —
It is important to note that Mr. Talib -LIF has yet to respond to repeated and sincere requests from members of the Jamat for access to the Ismaili Constitution, Farmans, and institutional accountability.
Despite professing alignment with the Imam’s Farmans , this lack of respect transparency and engagement reveals a deeper disconnect: between his speech and action, & between institutional leaders and the ethics of faith.
As Hazar Imam has said, “It is not words, but action and behaviour that matter.”
Awaiting a response to earlier requests and this reminder
⸻
Quoted Remarks:
“The Global Encounters Festival exemplifies the spirit of unity, service and excellence that the Ismaili community aspires to worldwide,” said Malik Talib, Chair of the Ismaili Leaders’ International Forum (LIF).
“It offers young people a powerful platform to express their talents, build lasting friendships across borders and deepen their commitment to improving the societies in which they live.”
The Festival aims to empower the next generation of changemakers — nurturing artists, athletes and civic leaders who are not only pursuing excellence but also driving social impact, climate action, and intercultural understanding.
“This is more than an event. It’s a living example of what’s possible when young people from around the world come together with purpose.”
“Dubai, with its visionary leadership and unmatched cultural energy, is the ideal home for this global celebration,” concluded Talib.
viewtopic.php?p=73871#p73871
viewtopic.php?t=9442
Dear All
I am attaching below the remarks made by Mr. Malik Talib, Chairman of the Ismaili Leaders’ International Forum (LIF), at the opening of the Global Encounters Festival. While his words strongly echo the values expressed by Mawlana Hazar Imam, Prince Aly Muhammad, and others — highlighting unity, service, excellence, and youth empowerment —
It is important to note that Mr. Talib -LIF has yet to respond to repeated and sincere requests from members of the Jamat for access to the Ismaili Constitution, Farmans, and institutional accountability.
Despite professing alignment with the Imam’s Farmans , this lack of respect transparency and engagement reveals a deeper disconnect: between his speech and action, & between institutional leaders and the ethics of faith.
As Hazar Imam has said, “It is not words, but action and behaviour that matter.”
Awaiting a response to earlier requests and this reminder
⸻
Quoted Remarks:
“The Global Encounters Festival exemplifies the spirit of unity, service and excellence that the Ismaili community aspires to worldwide,” said Malik Talib, Chair of the Ismaili Leaders’ International Forum (LIF).
“It offers young people a powerful platform to express their talents, build lasting friendships across borders and deepen their commitment to improving the societies in which they live.”
The Festival aims to empower the next generation of changemakers — nurturing artists, athletes and civic leaders who are not only pursuing excellence but also driving social impact, climate action, and intercultural understanding.
“This is more than an event. It’s a living example of what’s possible when young people from around the world come together with purpose.”
“Dubai, with its visionary leadership and unmatched cultural energy, is the ideal home for this global celebration,” concluded Talib.
viewtopic.php?p=73871#p73871
viewtopic.php?t=9442