A video excerpt showing an angry Egyptian cleric, known as Sheikh Saeed Nouman, claiming that a mute was appointed to one of the country’s minarets as Mu'adhin went viral on social media, stirring major controversy amidst religious echelons.
Typically found built into or adjacent to mosques, minarets serve as the outlet for performing the Muslim call to prayer (Adhan) by the Mu'adhin.
Fighting off suspicions, Egypt’s Ministry of Awqaf, the body tasked with regulating religious affairs and endowments, denied such an assignment being made and cast shade on an attempt to limit confidence in state affairs.
The cleric’s remarks gained credibility given that the preacher was introduced as a committee member at Al-Azhar’s Fatwa Committee. Nevertheless, the Awqaf ministry denied the cleric’s membership or even holding a position in any of the country’s religious state institutions.
The Committee too spoke up against Nouman, saying he did not represent the body or Al-Azhar.
It also called for media show hosts, in the best interest of maintaining security and stability, to conduct full background checks prior to inviting guests on air, especially when it comes to religious figures.
Nouman’s video excerpt was traced back to a local daytime TV show hosting the cleric.
The Awqaf ministry also pointed out legal action was being taken against Nouman over his untimely provocation of public opinion.
