Newsletters
Photos circulating on social media in Egypt sparked controversy after banners bearing the image of Endowments Minister Osama al-Azhari appeared on the facade of the historic Sayyida Zaynab Mosque in Cairo, prompting public criticism and calls for the images to be removed.
The minister of endowments instructed officials on Tuesday to remove the image in response to the demands, reaffirming respect for the sentiments of those who revere the Prophet’s family and for the sanctity of the Sayyida Zaynab Mosque.
The banners appeared as Sufi orders prepared to celebrate the Mawlid of Sayyida Zaynab, an annual religious commemoration in Cairo.
The banner that had been displayed bore the inscription: “Under the patronage of His Excellency Prof. Dr. Osama Al-Azhari, Minister of Endowments, the celebration of the Mawlid of Sayyida Zaynab, may God be pleased with her and grant her His pleasure. Wishing you well every year,” appearing in conjunction with celebrations marking the birth anniversary of the Prophet Muhammad’s granddaughter.
Some viewed the banners as promotional publicity for the minister. Critics condemned what they described as the use of places of worship as advertising platforms for officials.
In response, Ministry of Endowments spokesperson Osama Raslan said focusing solely on the image “reduces the broader picture,” adding that the purpose of the banners was to highlight the state’s efforts in events it sponsors and that institutions do the same, not to promote the minister personally.
The statement, however, did little to quell the anger, with some viewing it as an attempt to polish officials’ image at the expense of the spiritual occasion and the sanctity of the mosque.
Calls also grew for Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly to intervene and order the images removed, arguing that the banners undermined the office of the minister, whose role, critics said, should be to care for mosques and religious events, not to promote himself.
The Mawlid of Sayyida Zaynab is held each year in Egypt during the Islamic month of Rajab and is considered one of Cairo’s largest popular and Sufi festivals. Celebrations begin at the start of the month and reach their peak on the main night, traditionally observed on the last Tuesday of Rajab.
Tens of thousands of devotees of the Prophet’s family and members of Sufi orders flock to the Sayyida Zaynab Mosque to hold dhikr circles, recite praises of the Prophet, perform religious chants, and offer food and hospitality.
Set as preferred source
6 min read
