Nairobi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on the last leg of his 5-nation tour of Africa, today urged the youth to play an important role in nation-building and act as a counter narrative to “extremist ideologies”.
In comments that seemed to be directed at controversial Islamic preacher Zakir Naik, currently in the news for all the wrong reasons, Modi said, “preachers of hate and violence are threatening the fabric of our society”.
“Youth can play an important role in building a counter narrative to extremist ideologies. This is the age of inter dependence. A safe Kenya and a strong Africa is your destiny. Let no one take that away from you,” the Prime Minister said addressing a gathering of students at the University of Nairobi.
The PM also took a swipe at Pakistan without actually naming it for harbouring terrorists. “We must be equally condemning of those who give shelter to terrorists, and use them as political instruments,” he added.
Zakir Naik, meanwhile, today issued a statement clarifying his stand and coming down hard at the press for what he termed as a media trial.
“I do not support terrorism or violence in any form whatsoever. I have never supported any terrorist organisations,” Naik said.
He also said he condemned those taking his comments “out of context” and using it for instigating violence.
Naik said he was ready to cooperate with Indian investigation agencies, but had so far received no communication from them seeking any information.
Zakir Naik, who was scheduled to return to Mumbai from Saudi Arabia on Monday, has now deferred his plans, reportedly by a few weeks.
He has said he may issue a video statement responding to specific charges against him, if time permits.
