Australia’s top Islamic cleric has died following a long battle with cancer.
The Islamic Council of Victoria confirmed on Wednesday morning that the Grand Mufti Abdul Azeem al-Afifi ‘has passed away.
‘The Muslim community has lost a great leader,’ the organisation said in a statement.
Senior Muslim clerics had asked their followers to pray for al-Afifi as he had fallen into a coma, Daily Mail Australia reported last night.
The sheikh was appointed to the Sunni Muslim leadership position just four months ago.
His death could spark a fierce political fight in the Muslim community.
Grand Mufti of Australia Abdul Azeem al-Afifi (right) is in a coma. He has been battling cancer since before his recovery
‘I request everyone to make specific Dua (prayers) for him for his health & recovery.’
Islamic community official Muaz Al Haj said the preacher was in a coma ‘after years of fighting cancer’.
Sheikh al-Afifi replaced Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohammed in the position in March after a six year term.
The Grand Mufti is title given to a top spiritual leader of Sunni Muslims.
Dr Mohamed was in the role for six years and was criticised by commentators for speaking Arabic, rather than English, during his public appearances.
Both men were born in Egypt.
Sheikh al-Afifi, who is based in Victoria, has been outspoken about the ‘disease’ of terrorism.
Members of Sydney’s Muslim community are seen praying during Ramadan
The sheikh only recently replaced Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohammed (above)
He announced upon his appointment: ‘As Mufti I strongly stand against any kind of terrorism.
‘We want to keep our country, and all countries, safe and secure.’
The process that resulted in Sheikh Afifi’s appointment sparked dissension in the Islamic community.
Daily Mail Australia understands some delegates had expected another candidate to be appointed.
Calls to the Australian National Imams Council were not returned.