Egypt's Ministry of Awqaf has referred Islamic preacher Maher Shahin for investigation following comments that sparked widespread controversy on social media and were deemed inappropriate for the status of an imam and the mission of religious preaching. In an official statement, the ministry explained that it had monitored the circulating clip of Shahin, imam and preacher of Omar Makram Mosque, during an interview with journalist Yasmine Az on the program 'Kalam al-Nas' (People's Talk), which contained 'statements that are inconsistent with the ministry's vision and mission, as well as with the imam's status and position.' The most controversial remarks were his words to the host: 'You are more beautiful than the television,' asserting that her real beauty surpasses her appearance on screen, which some considered a breach of professional etiquette. Following the spread of the video clip, the ministry summoned the sheikh to its headquarters within hours, where he admitted his fault, offered a formal apology, and confirmed that his remarks were inappropriate. He also admitted to making media appearances without prior permission or nomination from the ministry, vowing not to appear in the future except in accordance with approved guidelines. The statement also indicated that the relevant authorities have begun referring the incident to the concerned administrations to take the necessary legal and administrative measures, while renewing the memo to all ministry personnel against appearing in the media without prior official permission.
