GOTHA, GERMANY — When Emrah Kayahan speaks, his words carry the pain of a life shaped by hardship. The 37-year-old, born in Izmir, Turkey, has lived through poverty, addiction, and existential doubt, only to emerge on the other side with an unshakable faith that has transformed his life—and his art. Kayahan, who now resides in Gotha, Germany, recently released a rap song inspired by his devotion to Aba Al-Sadiq. The song, he says, is not just a declaration of faith but a bridge to others who, like him, have felt lost and are searching for meaning. “It’s my way of expressing what’s in my heart,” Kayahan said in an interview from his modest home. Born on August 4, 1987, Kayahan grew up in a working-class family in Izmir. The youngest of four siblings, he describes his family’s economic situation as “below standard.” His father, whose lineage traces back to Macedonia, passed away in 2016. Despite the hardships, Kayahan forged his own path, eventually moving to Germany with his wife. But life in Germany was no panacea. While Kayahan found some respite from financial stress, he struggled with feelings of alienation and the weight of past addictions, including excessive marijuana use. He recalls a particularly dark period when he turned to a supplement called “Manna Elixir,” hoping it would alleviate his physical and emotional pain. Instead, he endured years of physical suffering and a heightened fear of death. “Every second of those three years felt like a battle,” he said. “But it was also during this time that I began to see things differently, to seek out the truth.” In 2019, while grappling with his inner turmoil, Kayahan had a dream that would alter the course of his life. In the dream, he saw a person holding a large picture frame in a completely dark environment. Although the figure was obscured, the image within the frame was vivid and clear. “At first, I thought it was Prophet Muhammad,” Kayahan said. “But as I searched for answers, I realized it was Aba Al-Sadiq.” This dream, he says, opened a new dimension of understanding. He began exploring the teachings of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light, a movement gaining traction among a diverse array of truth seekers worldwide. The religion, which emphasizes a direct connection with God and the leadership of Aba Al-Sadiq as the Mahdi, resonated deeply with Kayahan’s quest for truth. Around the same time, Kayahan discovered a new outlet for his spiritual awakening: rap music. Drawing on his experiences, he began writing songs with a focus on faith and morality. His latest track, which he released online, explores his journey from darkness to light and his unwavering belief in Aba Al-Sadiq. The lyrics, delivered in Turkish with raw emotion, are a reflection of Kayahan’s struggles and triumphs: “Some beg, some sell themselves, some shiver, some freeze. Some eat, some look, some are illegal, some sleep on the streets. Hayyelelsalah, hayellelfelah. The morning has come, rise for prayer and bow . ” For Kayahan, rap is more than just music; it’s a means of outreach. “People from all walks of life can relate to music,” he said. “It’s a universal language, just like faith.” Kayahan is one of a growing number of individuals from different backgrounds and cultures embracing the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light. The movement, which has spread through grassroots efforts and social media platforms like TikTok, includes people from all walks of life. “It doesn’t matter where you come from or what your past is,” Kayahan said. “Everyone is welcome, and everyone can contribute in their own way.” Kayahan’s story highlights this diversity. With his modest upbringing in Turkey, his struggles with addiction, and his passion for rap, he represents a unique facet of a faith community that values individual paths to the divine. As he looks to the future, Kayahan plans to continue using his music to share his beliefs. For Kayahan, the journey has just begun. And for the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light, his story is a testament to its power to inspire hope and transformation, one soul at a time.

In a powerful and controversial lecture, a complete dismantling of contemporary religious leadership is sending shockwaves through the Islamic world. Aba Al-Sadiq Abdullah Hashem dismantled the credibility of mainstream scholar Mahdi Al-Morshed, accusing him and other scholars, such as Sistani, of leading the faithful astray as foretold in Islamic eschatology. Drawing on prophetic narrations (Hadith), the Riser warned that during the end times, the greatest enemies of truth would not be external forces but misguided scholars. "The Messenger of Allah also said about them: 'There will come a time upon my nation when nothing will remain from the Qur’an except its calligraphy, and nothing will remain from Islam except its name. They will be called by it, while they are the farthest people from it. Their Masjids will be full, but devoid of guidance. The scholars of that time are the worst scholars under the sky. From them the fitnas emerged, and to them it shall return.'" (Bihar Al-Anwar, Al-Allamah Al-Majlisi, Vol. 52, p. 190-191) These figures, he proved, distort religion for political and personal gain, standing in direct opposition to the prophesied Mahdi’s mission to restore justice. He highlighted their allegiance to power over God, drawing historical parallels where leaders rejected divine guidance for self-interest. The lecture delivered a clear message: blind trust in scholars like Mahdi Al-Morshed, Sistani, or Khamenei risks betraying the very essence of Islam. Aba Al-Sadiq urged the faithful to return to the foundational teachings of Prophet Muhammad and to scrutinize modern religious authorities who have strayed from these principles. Aba Al-Sadiq's challenging stance has led to many Shia extremist threatening the members of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light. Even in the UK - where hate speech is a criminal offense. A Threat of Terrorism Against the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light in the UK Syed Ali Akhbari, a Shia Twelver public speaker affiliated with the Youtube Channel Bayat Al-Ghadeer, issued a direct threat against our headquarters in the UK. Bayat Al-Ghadeer, an organization based in London, operates a prominent YouTube channel and has connections to figures such as Ammar Nakshawani and Yasser Al-Habib. In a recorded TikTok session, captured by a believer under the nickname "Son of Nun," Akhbari issued chilling threats: "When 75 Shias Rafida, 12ver, turn up to their centers with Tatbis (swords) and Zinjirs (chains), these guys are going to be hiding in the basement of the centers. And if they're not going to catch them in the centers, they'll catch them from their homes. Because these details are not difficult to find. ... Actually, Aba Sadiq's the one who's going to get grabbed first. He's the first one, the one who insulted—uh, publicly insulted—Syed Sistani. We'll find out, we'll find out." He continued: "But mark my words, when 75 Rafida, just like when we turned up into the Sunni mosque in Birmingham. When 75 Rafida turn up to your centers with Tatbis (words) and Zinjeers (chains), and you hear those chains, like the chains you hear on the 10th of Ashura when the Rafida turn out to your centers, then we'll see Aba Sadiq. We'll see what type of Aba Sadiq he is when he's dragged like a frog, when his beanie hat's knocked out, and, Inshallah, one of the brothers would bring a machine and trim his hair off as well. He’d give him a nice skin fade." Such threats highlight the hostility and violence aimed at the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light. These actions reflect the wider network of hostility fueled by Bayat Al-Ghadeer and its associates, who resort to incitement and intimidation rather than meaningful dialogue.

In the Islamic calendar, few nights hold as much significance as Laylatul Qadr, or the Night of Power. This sacred night is one of spiritual devotion, mercy, and the establishment of divine decrees. Its holiness is described in the Qur'an: "We have indeed revealed this in the 'Night of Power.' And what will explain to you what the night of power is? The Night of Power is better than a thousand months,” thereby making clear the immense spiritual value of Laylatul Qadr. Muslims worldwide observe this night with great zeal, in order to obtain from its many benefits, as the rewards for worshiping on Laylatul Qadr are unparalleled. However, despite the anticipation of this night, one of the many mysteries surrounding Laylatul Qadr has been the uncertainty of its exact date in Islam. The Quran and hadiths do not specify the precise night when Laylatul Qadr occurs. Muslims are advised to seek this night in the odd-numbered nights of the last ten nights of Ramadan, following the Prophet's guidance: “Seek Laylat al-Qadr in the last ten days of Ramadan.” It is only with the advent of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light that we have come to know the true date of Laylatul Qadr. The sacredness of Laylatul Qadr has been confirmed in the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light as a night that is a unique opportunity of spiritual elevation and connection with the Divine, one where decrees are decided. There is also an important connection of this night with divinely appointed leaders.  Here we explore some of the most meaningful narrations about Laylatul Qadr, and the unique insights the narrations offer into this most blessed of nights. 1. Taking Full Advantage-A Heart of Light and Revelation Laylatul Qadr is often described as a time of serenity, peace and calm, one that enables spiritual presence and brings about transformation. Imam Abu Abdullah elaborated on the spiritual change that occurs on Laylatul Qadr: “The heart that witnesses what descends on the Night of Power is of immense significance. It is written upon the heart of that person with the ink of light, which encompasses all knowledge. The heart then becomes a scripture for the vision, and the tongue acts as a translator for the ears.” Bihar al-Anwar, Volume 94, Page 21 This night serves as a turning point for individuals, inspiring spiritual renewal and repentance, and encouraging individuals to establish a connection with God through heartfelt supplication and worship. It offers a unique opportunity for spiritual transformation. 2. Decrees Written on the Night of Power "Qadr" in the context of Laylatul Qadr is linked to the concept of destiny or decree. Not only is this night marked by its spiritual significance, decisions are made on this night. The Qur'an and hadiths emphasize that during Laylatul Qadr, matters such as sustenance, lifespan, health, and other aspects of life are decreed for the coming year. Imam al-Ridha was asked about the verse: “Indeed, We sent it down on the Night of Power” (Qur’an 97:1). He explained: “On the Night of Power, Allah Almighty decrees what will happen from one year to the next, whether it pertains to life or death, good or evil, or sustenance. Whatever He decrees on that night is definitive (mahtoom).” Bihar al-Anwar, Volume 94, Page 14 The decrees written on Laylatul Qadr are considered decisive. At the same time, Laylatul Qadr offers the opportunity to influence these decrees through sincere supplication on this night. Prophet Muhammad highlighted that supplication on this night has the greatest power to change one's decree. This is why believers are encouraged to pray intensely during this night, seeking divine mercy in the matters written or decreed on Laylatul Qadr.  3. The Descent of Angels and the Spirit Laylatul Qadr is characterized by the descent of angels and the Spirit to the earth. This descent is seen as a symbol of divine blessings and guidance. A link between this event and the successors of Prophet Muhammad has been mentioned. Imam Ali recounted an incident when the Prophet was reciting the chapter on Laylatul Qadr: “The angels and the Spirit descend therein by the permission of their Lord for every matter. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn” (Qur’an 97:4-5). The Prophet asked his companions: ‘Do you know to whom these matters are sent down?’ They replied: ‘We do not know.’ The Prophet placed his hand on my head and said: ‘If you do not know, then it is to this one after me.’” Bihar al-Anwar, Volume 94, Page 21 On Laylatul Qadr, the ordained decisions and matters of that year were presented to the Prophet Muhammad, during his time. After the Prophet passed away, these decrees and decisions were presented to Imam Ali on the night of Qadr, a clear indication of his divine successorship and its significance in Laylatul Qadr. 4. The Role of the Successors According to Islamic narrations, as with Imam Ali, this night involves a crucial role for the successors of Prophet Muhammad. Imam Ali explained to Ibn Abbas about the occurrence of Laylatul Qadr each year: “The Night of Power occurs every year, and during that night, the affairs of the entire year are decreed. After the Messenger of Allah this decree is entrusted to the successors (awsiya).” When asked who these successors were, he replied: “It is I and eleven others from my lineage—Imams who are divinely inspired (muhaddathoon).” Bihar al-Anwar, Volume 94, Page 14 The central importance of the successors in Laylatul Qadr gives an indication of how critical the divinely appointed successors are in the implementation of Allah's decrees. From this, it is clear that they are of the central aspects in the importance of Laylatul Qadr. This understanding adds another layer of significance to Laylatul Qadr.  True Date of Laylatul Qadr Further to this, the exact night of Laylat Al Qadr was never hidden from the successors of Allah.  Abu Ja’far said: ‘O Abu Hazeel! To us Laylatul Qadr is not hidden (from us) for the angels circle around us during it.’ Tafseer Noor Al Thaqalayn  Chp 97 Hadith 105 Only the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light has definitively clarified the date of this holy night. Aba Al Sadiq, the named successor in the will of Prophet Muhammad, has revealed this sacred mystery. We for the first time, now know the exact date of the night of Laylatul Qadr. Every year, Laylatul Qadr falls on December 23rd, a night filled with divine blessings and opportunity.  We know that Laylatul Qadr is a night that offers a unique chance for spiritual elevation and to benefit from God’s divine mercy. And the narrations not only mention the immense significance of this sacred night, they remind us of the critical role of His chosen successors in every important matter and decree sent down on this night. The aspects of the night of Qadr in relation to the Imam of our time is something to reflect and focus on, in this greatest of nights.

In this exclusive interview, Ulises Vergara, a psychology graduate, teacher, and coach, shares his personal spiritual journey and his experience teaching young people the values of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light. Currently based in Belgium, Ulises has been teaching and spreading spiritual values for over 25 years, adapting his methods to the needs of children and young adults. Below is a conversation about his experiences and insights. Q: What is your religious journey and how did you discover the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light? Ulises Vergara: My name is Ulises Vergara, and I am 50 years old. My journey begins in Chile, where I was born during a horrific civil war. My parents were communists and revolutionaries, and by 1981, I had to flee my country. Until then, my life was non-religious, and the presence of God never crossed my mind. That changed when I was around 15 or 16, during the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989. The collapse of the communist, non-religious education system I had grown up with pushed me to search for a deeper truth. I began exploring Far Eastern religions like Shinto and Buddhism, as well as the three major Abrahamic religions. However, Islam didn’t interest me much at first, as I didn’t understand certain aspects of its texts. At 18, I spoke to the heavens, saying, "You don’t exist. If you do, talk to me." A few months later, while on vacation, I woke up one morning, and my tongue started speaking on its own. It said: "Look at this sky, what created the sun, the sea, the mountains? This country looks like a paradise." Then it continued, "When you return from vacation, you will convert to Islam." Although surprised, I wasn’t afraid and felt a serene peace. I followed this guidance and converted to Islam. From that moment, I began a deep search, studying and exploring more. Since then, I immersed myself in religious texts, and last year, I came across TikTok videos from French-speaking brothers talking about the Mahdi. I downloaded The Goal of the Wise and after just a few weeks, I recited my testimony of faith and embraced the call fully. Q: What made you try to teach young children the merits of this call? I have a degree in psychology, specializing in crime and delinquency sciences. Before I even knew about this call, I was already preaching—on the streets, in associations, and at Belgian institutions. Eventually I realized that spiritual awareness can help children in their daily life's. Their parents agree and see a positive development. Q: Do you think certain ages are more receptive to the religious values? There is a language for every age. Prophet Muhammad taught children like Ali, who was only 9, as well as people in their 60s and 70s. He always adapted his language to fit his audience. Everyone is capable of receiving a message that is suited to their capacity for understanding. Q: How do you use the knowledge of Qaim and adapt it to the ears of younger people? I adapt it thanks to my background in psychology, which helps me understand the needs of young people. Teaching is a natural process, and I draw inspiration from the pedagogy of the Qaim, using themes like the Supremacy of God and explaining them through stories, such as the story of Moses. I make simple parallels that children can understand. For example, I engage them in activities like coloring or games that help them identify with the characters in these stories. Q: Do you use parables to make the connection with their daily lives? Yes, it’s almost essential. However, classic parables, like La Fontaine’s fables, might seem outdated to today’s children. I rely on modern references, such as manga. I talk to them about characters like Naruto or One Piece, who convey moral lessons that fit into their universe. Q: Do you think it makes a difference if children come from a secular or religious background? Yes, absolutely. However, every child has a nature (fitra), an internal breath, a kind of spiritual GPS that guides them towards God, whether they realize it or not. Q: Can you tell us about your experience in teaching and coaching children and adults? I’ve been teaching for 25 years in schools in Belgium. At first, I worked with adults and adolescents, but I soon realized that many of them were already set in their ways, shaped by old traditions and a rigid interpretation of Islam. Fate led me to teaching children aged 6 to 14, and I draw a lot of inspiration from the pedagogy of the Qaim. I use his teachings, both verbal and non-verbal, and adapt them to the children’s levels of understanding. I also recognize the power of imagery, as children’s minds are often filled with unblessed images. Through my work with children, I often find myself speaking with their parents. These conversations can sometimes be intense and contradictory, yet they allow for meaningful dialogue. Despite some considering me somewhat "different", the parents have entrusted their children to my classes for years. After teaching, I also work as a coach. Many of my clients are non-Muslims, and in those sessions, I shift from being the religious teacher to a philosopher coach. We often engage in deep debates about the existence and meaning of life. These clients are typically educated and affluent, and I draw from a variety of philosophical traditions, including Socrates, Aristotle, and Buddhism, to guide them towards seeking truth.

In this powerful narrative, Khaleed, a devoted follower of the AROPL, opens his heart to share a deeply personal journey. His story speaks to those who have felt lost, alienated, and in search of the divine. Originally from Tunisia, Khaleed's life is a compelling tale of struggle, redemption, and the ultimate embrace of truth through the call of Aba Al-Sadiq. Khaleed was born in Tunisia during a time of economic and social turmoil. In the 1980s, austerity measures, corruption, and inflation devastated his homeland, forcing him to leave in search of a better life. Determined to escape the economic instability, Khaleed emigrated to Italy as a young man, but the promise of a new beginning there eluded him. He later moved to Australia, attracted by its multicultural society and opportunities. Initially, Khaleed found comfort within the growing Tunisian community in Sydney and married an Australian woman. However, his interactions with extremist elements of the local Islamic community strained his marriage. Their rigid doctrines, including condemnation of his wife's choice not to wear the hijab, created tension and contributed to the eventual breakdown of his relationship. Losing custody of his children marked a turning point. Isolated, depressed, and disconnected from both his roots and his new homeland, Khaleed turned to substance abuse to cope. For 15 years, he lived in a state of despair, far from God, feeling like an outcast in every community he encountered. The Darkest Hour Before the Dawn In 2019, Khaleed reached rock bottom. Realizing the emptiness of the life he had been leading, he renounced harmful habits and turned back to God with sincerity. Living in a small one-bedroom apartment near a mosque, he began to pray regularly, seeking solace in the divine. Khaleed immersed himself in scripture, and for the first time, he felt a deep yearning for the truth. His journey led him to TikTok, where he encountered the teachings of Aba Al-Sadiq. At first skeptical, he became captivated by the clarity, logic, and profound evidence presented by Aba Al-Sadiq and his supporters. As Khaleed delved deeper into the teachings of the AROPL, he realized how blind he had been to the essence of the Quran. He recognized the urgent need for a living messenger to guide humanity in understanding divine scripture. Aba Al-Sadiq offered a clear and undeniable path to salvation. Inspired, Khaleed found a new sense of purpose. He connected with the AROPL team in North Africa and began designing flyers and posters to spread the call in his community. He dedicated himself to missionary works, sharing the message of the Riser with anyone willing to listen. Reflecting on his life, Khaleed now sees his struggles as a divine test that prepared him for this mission. He recognizes Aba Al-Sadiq as the spiritual father to the downtrodden, the political refugees, and the seekers of truth. For Khaleed, the Qaim represents the solution to the world’s chaos, a heavenly leader tasked with establishing the Kingdom of God on Earth. Khaleed remains steadfast in his commitment to the mission. Despite the pain of losing years with his children, he finds solace and fulfillment in serving the divine cause. His message to others is clear: true salvation lies in embracing the call of Aba Al-Sadiq and submitting to God with an open heart. Khaleed’s story is a testament to the transformative power of faith. Once a stranger to himself and the world, he now finds belonging among the believers of the AROPL. Through the guidance of Aba Al-Sadiq, he has found not only God but also a community that uplifts and empowers him. His life serves as a reminder that no sin is too great for God’s forgiveness, and no seeker is beyond the reach of divine mercy. His journey challenges us all to reflect: Are we ready to take the red pill and see how deep the rabbit hole of truth goes?

Geneva, Switzerland - On December 20, adherents of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light from across French-speaking countries in Europe will gather in Geneva to peacefully protest the ongoing persecution of members of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light in Jordan. This demonstration of solidarity aims to shed light on the grave injustices faced by Ahmadi communities in Muslim-majority countries and to demand accountability from Jordanian authorities for the violation of religious freedom. The Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light, a religious movement with beliefs diverging from traditional Muslim views, has been the target of systematic repression and intimidation in Jordan. This oppression reached a critical point on July 25, 2024 , when six members of the Ahmadi community were arrested while peacefully conducting missionary work in Amman’s Tla Ali district. The detainees, including Issa Mahmoud Abd Al-Rahman Abu Shahin , Fadi Mostafa Mohamad Alyan , Yahya Hassan Abdullah Jabir , Omar Mahmoud Abd Al-Rahman Abu Shahin , Yahia Abedelmajeed Mahmoud Berjawi , and Maryam Jabir Sabir Al-Debaji , were charged under Article 150 of the Jordanian Penal Code for “insulting religious feelings of others” and “inciting sectarian strife.” Reports indicate they endured harsh interrogations, threats of job loss, and solitary confinement in abysmal prison conditions, all to suppress their beliefs. Religious authorities denounced them as "heretics," prompting the national security apparatus to impose stringent surveillance measures. They are prohibited from gathering, communicating with one another, or publicly expressing their faith, effectively silencing their religious practice. The plight of Maryam Jabir Sabir Al-Debaji  is particularly troubling. Initially slated for release, her affirmation of faith resulted in postponed freedom and eventual charges alongside her peers. These arrests, alongside broader repression, reflect a disturbing pattern of discrimination and harassment that violates Jordan's constitutional and international commitments to religious freedom. In 2020, Jordanian authorities even shut down the satellite channel of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light, silencing their voice to hundreds of thousands of viewers across the Middle East and North Africa. Protesters in Geneva call on the Jordanian government to: Drop all charges against the six detainees arrested on July 25, 2024, and end their prosecution. Uphold the free exercise of religion for the Ahmadi community, as guaranteed under Articles 6 and 14 of Jordan’s Constitution. Abide by Article 18 of the UN International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which protects freedom of religion or belief. This case has already been raised at the Fifty-seventh session of the UN Human Rights Council in September 2023, in a written statement submitted by Coordination des Associations et des Particuliers pour la Liberté de Conscience, a non-governmental organization in special consultative status. Several prominent human rights groups, religious freedom advocates, academics and scholars of religious studies across Europe and the United Kingdom have condemned this religious persecution against Ahmadi members in Jordan through an open letter they addressed to Jordanian authorities. As one Ahmadi member poignantly stated: "We’re not asking for special treatment. We’re simply asking for the right to practice our faith in peace, without fear of persecution or imprisonment. Is that too much to ask in the 21st century?"

The Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light (AROPL) is experiencing a troubling increase in online threats and harassment as its presence on social media platforms such as YouTube and TikTok expands rapidly. This religious minority's growing influence has attracted vocal opposition online, leading to a surge in mocking comments and serious threats against the faith's members and its leader, Aba Al-Sadiq. AROPL's global outreach  has resulted in threatening comments being posted in multiple languages, including English, Arabic, French, and Malay. These posts, filled with hatred and hostility, target the faith and its adherents. Some of the most alarming posts are made by individuals who can be seen posing with weapons. These people call for “ethnic cleansing” of the believers and who declare that the blood of AROPL's followers is "halal" or permissible to shed. The situation is increasingly worrisome, as threats to the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light's followers violate the fundamental human right to freedom of religion or belief. The international community must take action to protect the safety and well-being of these individuals by denouncing threats and hate speech targeting its members. Social media platforms should also monitor and remove harmful content to ensure a safe online environment for all. If you believe in the universal right to practice one's faith without fear, now is the time to stand up against online harassment and champion a world that values respect, inclusivity, and justice for all.

We are living in dark times - a world where oppressed refugees are being brutally attacked, arrested and detained. Their crime? Fleeing from persecution and probable execution in their homeland because of their choice of faith. The recent treatment of members of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light and their subsequent detention in Turkey is nothing short of an abhorrent violation of basic human rights . Men, women and children who risked their lives in hopes of a better future, find themselves in facilities designed to inflict maximum physical and psychological trauma. Instead of safeguarding these vulnerable individuals, Turkish authorities chose to subject them to treatment that is tantamount to torture.  As a medical professional, who has experience of attending to the needs of prisoners in the UK, the stark contrast in access to medical care for refugees is frankly alarming. I feel it is my duty to bring attention to the plight of beleaguered asylum seekers, focusing on the multitude of health problems they face whilst in detention. Some of the common health issues experienced by detained refugees include a significantly higher risk of contracting infectious diseases due to the overcrowded conditions and poor sanitation. Common infections include respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, tuberculosis, as well as sexually transmitted diseases.  Furthermore, limited access to adequate nutrition and healthcare can lead to malnutrition particularly among children, pregnant women, the elderly and those with chronic diseases. I wanted to highlight a few cases of the horrific treatment meted out to adherents of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light at the infamous Edirne detention center in Turkey. Cases which demonstrate not only a lack of basic medical resources but also a deplorable attitude towards the sick and infirm.  Left: Arzu; Right: Phatmalek One such case was that of a Arzu , a woman with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus who upon losing consciousness and subsequently having a seizure was accused of feigning illness and promptly referred to a local psychiatric unit.  Another case was that of Phatmalak, a middle-aged man who had collapsed after chest pain and was commenced on IV fluids at a local clinic. The belligerent guards who accompanied him grew impatient with the speed of the infusion and decided to take matters into their own hands by squeezing the fluid bag to speed up the delivery process, which could have resulted in catastrophic consequences. A child with jaundice was neglected until he became listless before any medical attention was given. Children in detention may experience developmental delays, educational disruptions, and emotional trauma, which can have long-term consequences on their well-being and future prospects.  Finally, there is of course the mental health aspect, which arguably accounts for the majority of the burden of disease seen in captivity. The experience of displacement and persecution, followed by detention can lead to significant psychological distress among refugees. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other trauma-related disorders are extremely prevalent in these settings. Addressing the health needs of detained refugees requires a holistic approach with comprehensive strategies that prioritise access to healthcare, mental health support, nutrition, sanitation, and preventive health measures. The treatment of refugees in Edirne failed on all metrics. The disturbing truth is that Turkey represents a microcosm of a much greater global issue, where disenfranchised asylum seekers are deprived of basic human rights. In this scenario, over a hundred members of this persecuted religious minority were denied safe passage at the Turkish-Bulgarian border, violently beaten, and pushed back to Edirne. For the Turkish authorities to respond to this humanitarian refugee crisis in this manner breaks all internationally agreed-upon human rights laws. The distressing reality is that this is just the tip of the iceberg.

KABUL, Afghanistan — Unconfirmed reports have surfaced regarding the execution of two members of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light at the hands of the Taliban in Afghanistan. The reports claim that a group of sixteen Ansar were arrested by Taliban forces while distributing printed copies of The Mahdi’s Manifesto , authored by Aba Al-Sadiq. One of the detainees was reportedly released after denying any knowledge of the faith. However, the individual was severely beaten, resulting in broken teeth, and was warned that if he were found associating with the movement again, the Taliban would cut him into pieces and set his home and family on fire. Thirteen of the believers remain in custody. According to sources, two believers stood firm in their faith, reciting their declaration of faith before the Taliban, and were executed by public beheading. While these reports remain unverified, the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light has received testimony and images of one beaten believer’s body. For security reasons, the names and identities of those involved are being withheld. This marks the first reported execution of AROPL believers, though Ansar around the world have faced imprisonment and torture for their faith. The Taliban, known for its harsh enforcement of a strict interpretation of Islamic law, has a history of persecuting those it considers heretical. Under their rule, acts deemed as blasphemy or deviation from their interpretation of Islam are often met with extreme punishments, including public executions. Religious minorities, especially those perceived as deviating from orthodox Sunni beliefs, frequently face the death penalty or severe corporal punishment for perceived heresy.

In an era when freedom of religion is celebrated globally, Malaysia stands at a crossroads, with its government perpetuating oppression against its minority communities. Zul Iskandar bin Johari, a devoted Ansar of Imam Al-Mahdi and follower of the Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light, has delivered a powerful message addressing this injustice today. Zul highlights the recent persecution of Ahmadi believers, including the unjust imprisonment of a 60-year-old adherent, Mr. Zolekafeli Abd Ghani . This violation of religious freedom not only contravenes divine principles but also the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Cairo Declaration on Human Rights in Islam. Zul's message underscores the vital need for Malaysians to awaken to the truth: the appearance of Aba Al-Sadiq, the banner-bearer of Imam Al-Mahdi, and the fulfillment of long-awaited prophecies. He calls on civil servants, scholars, and citizens to reject oppressive leadership, embrace divine guidance, and support the mission of establishing the Divine Just State. The Ahmadi Religion of Peace and Light reaffirms its commitment to human rights, justice, and the pursuit of truth. This movement is not just a call to faith—it is a call to action for all who seek a world free from tyranny and injustice.