KARACHI, March 19, 2024: H.E Suhail Muhammad Al-Zarooni, a prominent UAE businessman and Chairman of Al-Zarooni Group, has appealed to Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir regarding the occupation of “Masjid-e-Sakina Sultan” in the Defense Phase 8 area of Karachi, named in honor of his late mother Sakina Sultan. Mr. Zarooni urged the COAS to assist in reclaiming the mosque and to bolster the Pakistan-UAE friendship to reassure Emirati businessmen.
In a letter addressed to Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, Suhail Muhammad Al-Zarooni highlighted the construction of “Masjid-e-Sakina Sultan” in Karachi’s Defense Phase 8 in 2006, dedicated to his mother. He emphasized that funds from the UAE are regularly allocated for the mosque’s upkeep, with strict prohibition on accepting external donations. However, during his last year visit following his mother’s passing, he discovered the mosque was occupied.
“It came to his attention that the occupying group has been soliciting donations under a fake NGO bearing his mother’s name, exacerbating the situation.”
The Emirati businessman expressed frustration over the lack of progress from the Defense Housing Authority (DHA) and other relevant institutions regarding the possession of a mosque. Despite sending letters to various authorities, including the Chief of Army Staff, Corps Commander Sindh, DG Pakistan Rangers Sindh, IG Sindh, Chief Minister, and Governor Sindh, only consolations have been received. However, he acknowledged the efforts of the FIA in assisting him.
He questioned why the Defense Housing Authority has been delaying the return of the mosque’s possession for a year, said that the committee formed, led by Imran Qureshi, who occupied the mosque. He urged the Land Grabbers to acquire land from DHA and build their own mosque if they are interested in earning rewards, but to relinquish possession of the mosque to him.
Mr. Al-Zarooni underscored the significant philanthropic contributions of the UAE Royal Family throughout Pakistan, including the construction of over 1000 mosques. However, he voiced concerns that the occupation of “Masjid-e-Sakina Sultan” could deter future welfare initiatives by Emirati businessmen in Pakistan.
Expressing disappointment with the current state of affairs, Suhail Al-Zarooni reiterated his plea to Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir for intervention to regain control of “Masjid-e-Sakina Sultan” and ensure its management is transferred back to him. This, he emphasized, is vital for the continued service of Emirati businessmen towards the people of Pakistan and the advancement of welfare projects in the region.
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