Egypt Minister Fired After Comments About Prophet Muhammad
Tue Mar 15, 2016 10:29:am Africa
2.7K By sosa hills
Egypt's government spokesman says the prime minister has fired the justice minister, two days after he said on TV he would even imprison the Prophet Muhammad if he committed a crime.
Cabinet spokesman Hossam Qawish tells The Associated Press Sunday that Ahmed el-Zind was "released from his position," without providing further details.
El-Zind said Friday in a television interview that he would put anyone who violates the law in prison, "even if he is the prophet, peace and blessing be upon him."
El-Zind quickly followed by saying "I ask God for forgiveness" for making the comment.
But that did not prevent a backlash by faithful Muslims as well as criticism on social media.
His remarks sparked a widespread outcry on social media networks, where users demanded al-Zend be tried for insulting Islam.
Hours before his resignation was known, the foremost institution of Sunni Islam, Al Azhar, warned of insults against Muhammad.
The prophet "should not be subjected to any insult even if it's unintentional," Al Azhar said in a statement, stressing that Muhammad is "the honor and pride of this nation, you must respect him."
Numerous national and international NGOs have criticized the lack of impartiality of Egyptian justice, a charge authorities have dismissed.
Cabinet spokesman Hossam Qawish tells The Associated Press Sunday that Ahmed el-Zind was "released from his position," without providing further details.
El-Zind said Friday in a television interview that he would put anyone who violates the law in prison, "even if he is the prophet, peace and blessing be upon him."
El-Zind quickly followed by saying "I ask God for forgiveness" for making the comment.
But that did not prevent a backlash by faithful Muslims as well as criticism on social media.
His remarks sparked a widespread outcry on social media networks, where users demanded al-Zend be tried for insulting Islam.
Hours before his resignation was known, the foremost institution of Sunni Islam, Al Azhar, warned of insults against Muhammad.
The prophet "should not be subjected to any insult even if it's unintentional," Al Azhar said in a statement, stressing that Muhammad is "the honor and pride of this nation, you must respect him."
Numerous national and international NGOs have criticized the lack of impartiality of Egyptian justice, a charge authorities have dismissed.
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