The National Press Club has called on Mail and Guardian editor Nick Dawes, cartoonist Jonathan “Zapiro” Shapiro and Muslim leaders to “sit down, discuss and resolve” issues surrounding the publication of a cartoon depicting the Prophet Muhammed. In a statement on 23 May, chairperson Yusuf Abramjee said: “The matter is very sensitive and the cartoon has offended the Muslim community. As a Muslim myself, I find it offensive and provocative,” said Abramjee. “We promote freedom of speech and expression. But, let’s not forget that it is not absolute. In this case, it must be weighed against religious tolerance. “The media needs to be sensitive to religious beliefs and must not marginalize any community. We need to act responsibly.” Meanwhile, Muslim bodies have agreed at a meeting to engage the Mail and Guardian on the issue
