Dr. Zakir Naik sparks controversy by declaring Maryam Nawaz’s chief ministership Haram

The visiting Indian Islamic scholar Dr. Zakir Naik has sparked another controversy by declaring the ruling of a woman unlawful (haram) in Islam.

During an interview with a private TV channel, he stated that, according to Islam, a woman cannot become a ruler. In response, the anchor pointed out, “We also have a woman chief minister,” referring to CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz. Dr. Naik replied that he was also speaking about the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, and a former prime minister in Pakistan.

Dr. Naik said that when a woman asked him about this, he responded by questioning whether men had died in that city or country, allowing a woman to govern. “I have nothing against women, but why should a woman hold office? Are there no men available in that city or country?” he asked.

 

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He added that touching a non-mahram is forbidden in Islam, yet these women were shaking hands with non-mahram men. He quoted the Prophet, saying that hitting a nail into one’s head is better than touching a non-mahram woman.

It should be noted that Dr. Naik is on a one-month visit to Pakistan as a state guest. During this visit, he gives lectures on various Islamic topics at public gatherings and then responds to questions from the audience.

Earlier, while answering a question, he made controversial remarks about women who are not married or who choose not to marry, calling them “public property.”

On social media in Pakistan, some people support his views, describing them as true Islamic thoughts, while others criticize him for his controversial remarks.