According to Ahlul Bayt (A) News Agency – ABNA.ir – Muslims in Thailand elected chairman of Songkhla Islamic Committee as new spiritual leader, a Thai report said.
After winning an election by an overwhelming majority yesterday, Aziz Pitakumpol has become the 18th spiritual leader of Muslims in a country that holds Muslim south regions.
"He is the first Chula Ratchamontri from the South in the 400-year history of the position," Bangkok Post said.
Mr Aziz, 63, won 423 votes followed by Bangkok Islamic teacher Thawee (Safi-i) Naphakorn (148 votes) and Central Islamic Committee vice-chairman Saman Maleephan (122 votes). There were 37 flawed ballots.
The three candidates were short-listed from nine names proposed by 740 members of 38 provincial Islamic committees.
Aziz said he was thankful for the overwhelming support and would seek the cooperation of the ummah (Muslim community) in his work.
"I realise that there are expectations that I could or should do something about the southern problem, but this is not an election to a political post," he said.
"I represent not only the southern region but am also a representative of all Muslims in the country."
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