Asherville’s own Imraan Subrathie has been recognised on a national stage after receiving a prestigious Shield of Honour at the 2026 Sufi Conference held in Cape Town.
The conference, attended by prominent local and international Islamic scholars, including UK-based scholar Sheikh Ahmad Dabbagh, honoured Subrathie for his ongoing efforts in confronting racial hatred, religious intolerance and harmful online content targeting communities.
The award was presented by the Cape Town Ulama Board in recognition of Subrathie’s work in defending the honour of The Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) in the digital space amid growing incidents of vile and inciteful posts circulating online.
Subrathie has become increasingly vocal against hate speech and divisive rhetoric on social media platforms. Earlier this year, he delivered a Member’s Statement in Parliament condemning the rise of religious intolerance in South Africa.
During the Budget Vote 30 debate in May, he also commended the swift action of the Film and Publications Board in dealing with online hate speech and harmful digital content.
Most recently, Subrathie responded to an anti-Indian video circulating on social media, with a takedown notice reportedly issued within 24 hours.
Speaking after receiving the honour, Subrathie thanked organisers for the recognition and called on South Africans to stand united against hatred and intolerance.
“We must collectively condemn racial and religious intolerance wherever it rears its ugly head,” he said.
One of the lead convenors of the conference, Sayed Ridhwaan, described the Asherville MP as a humble leader committed to serving humanity beyond race, religion or creed.
“He does not hold office for power; he is simply here to serve humanity,” said Ridhwaan in a heartfelt reflection shared after the event.
Ridhwaan added that watching Subrathie receive the honour was one of the highlights of the conference, praising his integrity and willingness to defend communities when hateful online attacks surfaced.
