Imam Hamza Chaoui denies accusations of Mayors Mnard, Coderre

Imam Hamza Chaoui is responding for the first time since Montreal city officials announced he will not be given an operating permit to open an Islamic Community Centrecalled the Ashabeb Centre.

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On Saturday, Montreal Mayor DenisCoderre, alongsideMercier-Hochelaga-MaisonneuveMayorRalMnard, announced they would not grant an operational permit to the community centre, sayingit was an issue of public safety.

I categorically refute allegations of Mayors Mnard and Coderre, writes Chaoui on his Facebook page.

Im not an agent of radicalization. Ive never promoted hatred or violence against a group in my preaching or my classes.

He says he encourages young people to integrate harmoniously into Quebec society.

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Chaoui says he'soutraged that politicians and media haveused the establishment of the centre to increase Islamophobia and encourage debate on religious secularism versus fundamentalism.

Chaoui says the clips of his preaching played by the media have been taken out of context.

What I preach is based on the Quran and the prophetic writings and is followed by the majority of Sunni Muslims. Its similar to the foundation of Christian and Jewish traditions, said Chaoui.

Chaoui is demanding an apology from Mnard and Coderre.

He says he's considering all legal options, including pursuing legal action towards elected officials, who, they feel, have "seriously tarnished their reputation."