Lahore (Media Bites)- Dr. Zakir Naik, who is currently visiting Karachi, Pakistan, made headlines during an interview with a private TV channel. He stirred controversy with his statement that a country led by a woman cannot progress.
During the interview, anchorperson Fareeha Idrees asked Dr. Naik about Islamic laws related to female leadership. Pointing towards the current Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz, she mentioned, “Our Chief Minister is also a woman.”
In response, Dr. Naik said, “I have nothing personal against this woman, but why a woman? Have all the men in this city or country died?” While not directly mentioning Maryam Nawaz by name, his point was clear.
To justify his stance, Dr. Naik cited a Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), explaining that in high-ranking positions, men often have to engage in discussions that involve physical interactions, such as handshakes, which are not permissible in Islam.
He also referenced his trip to Gambia, where he declined to shake hands with the U.S. Ambassador due to religious beliefs. “I told her, our religion doesn’t allow us to shake hands with women,” he said, adding that even the President of Gambia was shocked by this, but he stood firm on his principles.
Dr. Naik further emphasized that Islamic Shariah should not be compromised for the sake of governance. He mentioned that “99% of YouTube ads are un-Islamic,” and that Allah and His Messenger have clearly laid out the guidelines for purdah (modesty).
