Savera UK has shared its concern and disappointment following the arrival in the UK of Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, Head Priest and leader of the Dawoodi Bohra community and a vocal advocate of FGM.

Alongside other organisations tackling harmful practices and violence against women and girls (VAWG), Savera UK has raised its concerns that the arrival of the Syedna could put girls at increased and imminent risk of FGM in the UK.

Afrah Qassim, CEO and Founder of Savera UK, said: “Like many other organisations that tackle harmful practices and VAWG, Savera UK is disappointed and deeply concerned that Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin was granted a visa to enter the UK, despite his vocal support for FGM. 

“This decision may have put countless women and girls at risk, especially during the high-risk summer holiday period, when schools are closed and there are fewer safeguarding measures in place. 

“We support the call by WeSpeakOut, Equality Now and others for the Syedna to publicly denounce FGM to his followers around the globe. We also demand that those who support this cruel and forbidden practice, which is a violation of human rights – particularly those with power or influence – are not granted entry into this country. FGM is illegal here and it is the responsibility of our government to protect the safety of women and girls, by denying access to those who support and even advocate these harmful practices.”