An Arab on-line petition has been recently launched to counter a highly visible public relations and media campaign against United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
In the United States, the Jewish lobby has recently mounted a campaign against the UAE President and his reputation, demanding that the prestigious Harvard Divinity School return a generous $2.5 million gift for the creation of a chair in Islamic studies, contributed by the UAE leader.
Jewish organizations have used a website, based on various misrepresentations, to collect over 9,000 names, urging the Harvard Divinity School to return Sheikh Zayed's donation.
In response to these steps, an alternative site has been setup at www.petitiononline.com, as a show of support for the UAE President and his lifetime achievements and contributions.
The petition, entitled “Return Sheikh Zayed’s kind gesture with respect: Look at the Facts”, aims to show Harvard that a majority of freethinking people strongly disagree with the "religious bigotry" presented against Sheikh Zayed. Up to date, 4,639 people have signed this petition, which was written by Elie Moukarzel, a former member of the Harvard University community.
Moukarzel claims in the petition that “to claim that Sheikh Zayed promotes hatred of Americans is outrageous” and adds that “(the UAE leader)... is one of the US’ key allies in the region.”
On the accusations that Sheikh Zayed “abuses” his own citizens, Moukarzel challenges anyone to find an Emirati who would affirm this. “I have never encountered a country where a people are so content, at peace with themselves...Sheikh Zayed is beloved in the UAE, a symbol of nationhood and continuity. His word is trusted and respected”. (Albawaba.com)
© 2003 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
