Archbishop of Canterbury is accused of condoning repression of Muslim women after she is pictured with covered wife of Islamic cleric who honoured Osama bin Laden
Archbishop of Canterbury Dame Sarah Mullally has faced criticism after being photographed with Hafiz Tahir Ashrafi and his niqab-wearing wife at Lambeth Palace. Critics argue the image conflicted with her pledge to oppose misogyny and appeared to endorse coercive restrictions on Muslim women, while also damaging the Church of England’s reputation.
Ashrafi received the Hubert Walter Award for Reconciliation and Interfaith Co-operation, but the honour was withdrawn after reports that he had previously honoured Osama bin Laden. The ceremony took place on the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, prompting further controversy; Conservative politicians have called for reflection and an apology, while the Archbishop has been criticised for not formally addressing concerns about women’s dignity and freedom.
- Archbishop criticised over photograph with cleric’s niqab-wearing wife
- Cleric’s award withdrawn after links to bin Laden emerged
- Conservatives say the image appeared to normalise female oppression