Shia Community in Egypt Condemns Repeated Closure of Shrine of Imam Hussein’s Head, Calls for Respect for Religious Freedoms

Shia Community in Egypt Condemns Repeated Closure of Shrine of Imam Hussein’s Head, Calls for Respect for Religious Freedoms
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The Shia community in Egypt has condemned the repeated closure of the shrine of the head of Imam Hussein, peace be upon him, during religious occasions that Shia Muslims are keen to commemorate, saying the measure raises questions about freedom of worship and citizens’ right to visit religious sites.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the Shia community said it was following with concern what it described as continued restrictions faced by Shia citizens because of their sectarian affiliation, despite the guarantees provided by the Egyptian constitution for religious freedoms and citizenship rights for all citizens without discrimination.

The statement said the Ministry of Endowments’ announcement that the shrine of Imam Hussein, peace be upon him, was being closed for maintenance and renovation had been repeated, according to the community, in a way that coincided with religious occasions during which Shia Muslims usually visit the shrine. The community said this raised questions about the motives behind the measure.

The Shia community stressed that Shia citizens are part of Egypt’s national fabric and enjoy the full rights guaranteed by the constitution and law, foremost among them the right to practice religious rituals and visit shrines peacefully and respectfully.

It called on the concerned authorities to respect the constitutional rights of all citizens and ensure equality and non-discrimination on the basis of belief or sectarian affiliation, in a way that strengthens citizenship and the rule of law.

The statement emphasized that respecting religious and sectarian diversity is a key pillar of social stability and peaceful coexistence.