Objectors Call for the Punishment of a Saudi Consultative Council member

Dr. Mohammed Zulfah

Riyadh-In their latest attempt to ensure that women in Saudi Arabia are not granted the right to drive, some members of the Kingdom”s Consultative Council have been calling for severe penalties against Dr. Mohammed Zulfah, also a Council member, for issuing pleas to reconsider the religious edict forbidding women to drive. This week old campaign is being waged using the internet and mobile phones messages and, if successful, might see Dr. Zulfah expelled from the Council.

A fellow member of the Council told Asharq Al Awsat that members”

recommendations and opinions must not be considered violations and their authors shouldn”t face punishment.  He also noted that views and requests expressed in civil forums, outside of the Council, including the recent calls to banish a member, are invalid. Ultimately, the source added, it is the job of member of the Council to provide consultation.

In an interview over the phone, Zulfah expressed his belief that these latest attacks originate from individuals who have much time to fill by discrediting him and casting doubt on his character. Zulfah was adamant that these calls for his dismissal will not impact him, adding that he is not the first nor will he be the last Council member to suffer from harassment.

Zulfah also told us of his surprise at the reactions to him merely suggesting the need for a debate on women”s right to drive in Saudi Arabia, which can then be approved or rejected. He emphasized that he wasn”t promoting a matter opposed in the Quran or the teachings of the Prophet Mohammed. In fact, it was his opponent”s attitude and over reaction that indicates their unwillingness to engage in a dialogue. Small in numbers but loud in their objection, Zulfah added, his opponents seek to stifle any debate on the issue. Part of the problem, according to the Council member, is the silence of those who share his view and support a discussion on women and driving taking place. Zulfah blamed the Saudi intellectuals for their fear of speaking out, equating them with the opposition, because they”ve refrained from saying a word of wisdom that would benefit their society. He also shared his surprise at the lack of discussion when the Saudi government had accepted to debate all opinions.

Finally, Zulfah said that religious scholars who speak the truth can sometimes differ, without one insisting he is the only one right. The Council member concluded that problems now arise from those who issue religious verdicts but lack knowledge.