In a forceful critique of the South African Hajj and Umrah Council (SAHUC), Mufti Ebrahim Smith, Principal of Darul Iftaa Western Cape, has questioned the body’s authority and called for the establishment of an independent ombudsman to protect pilgrims. His comments come amid a growing storm of controversy over SAHUC’s move to become the sole operator for Hajj.
The dispute centres on SAHUC’s decision to exclusively manage Hajj packages, a plan that has triggered widespread alarm over a potential monopoly, inflated costs, and a lack of choice for thousands of South Africans.
Mufti Smith directly challenged the legitimacy of the council’s structure and its power to regulate the pilgrimage. “SAHUC is not an authority, they’re an NPC, they’re not even an NPO,” he stated, describing the organisation as a “self-appointed” entity. He argued that this lack of a formal, government-mandated structure leaves pilgrims vulnerable.
This view is compounded by fears within the Muslim community, which have led political parties like the Democratic Alliance to intervene. The DA has formally written to the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation to clarify SAHUC’s legal status, noting that they have been “inundated with queries from the Muslim community, who are now fearful that they will not get hajj travel services on time, or at an inflated price,” according to a statement.
SMread: Hajj monopoly fears grow over SAHUC’s new model
Call for an independent ombudsman
Proposing a concrete solution to the governance crisis, Mufti Smith advocated for a new layer of independent oversight. “I think that we need an ombudsman here for the hajj,” he declared. He explained that such a figure would be crucial “that can ensure South Africans get value for their money.”
His call for an ombudsman addresses the core financial concerns that have been raised. Travel industry experts have warned that SAHUC’s proposed model could lead to higher prices. SAHUC’s planned 10% service commission, in addition to other fees, “is far more than what a travel agent would have earned in the past,” according to Irshad Malek, CEO of World of Travel.
Mufti Smith also criticised the lack of African representation within SAHUC’s structures, suggesting a disconnect from the broader community it serves. “There’s no African person on the board of SAHUC,” he observed, highlighting another area where he believes the council is failing in its responsibilities.
As the debate intensifies and protests are organised against SAHUC’s proposed changes, Mufti Smith’s direct challenge to the council’s authority and his call for independent oversight have added a powerful voice to the growing demands for reform and transparency in the administration of Hajj for South Africans.
Image via Wikipedia.
