BENEFIT 320: The Prohibition of Women Assuming General Leadership Positions, Such as Presidency, Ministry, or Judiciary

Question: What is the stance of Shari'ah regarding a woman nominating herself for the presidency of a state, head of government, or a ministerial position? Sheikh ibn Baz rahimahullāh responded: It is not permissible to appoint a woman or select her for the general leadership of Muslims. This is established by the Qur'an, Sunnah, and consensus (1). From the Qur'an, Allah says: ﴿الرجال قوَّامون على النساء بما فضَّل الله بعضهم على بعض﴾ "Men are in charge of women by [right of] what Allāh has given one over the other" [Qur'an 4:34]. This Āyah generally affirms the man's authority and leadership over his family, and it applies even more so to general leadership. This ruling is further supported by the reasoning provided in the Āyah, which highlights the superiority of men in intellect, decision-making, and other qualifications necessary for leadership. From the Sunnah, the Prophet ﷺ said regarding the Persians appointing the daughter of Kisrā as their ruler: ((لن يفلح قومٌ ولَّوا أمرَهم امرأة)) "A people who make a woman their leader will never succeed." [Narrated by Al-Bukhari] (2) There is no doubt that this hadith prohibits appointing a woman to any position of general leadership, including ruling over a region or country, as these are forms of public authority. The Prophet ﷺ explicitly negated success for those who entrust such leadership to a woman. Success here refers to achieving good outcomes and prosperity. Additionally, rational considerations also dictate that general leadership positions should not be entrusted to women. Those selected for such positions must possess exceptional intellect, decisiveness, strategic thinking, strong willpower, and effective management skills. These attributes are generally inconsistent with the innate nature of women, who are characterised by emotional tendencies, limited reasoning, and weaker decision-making abilities. Appointing a woman to such positions is therefore contrary to the best interests of Muslims and undermines efforts to achieve strength and stability for the community. And Allah grants success. May blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad and his family and companions. Source: Al-Mujtama’ Magazine, Issue No. 890 ___ (1) Ibn Hazm rahimahullah states: «ولا خلاف بين أحدٍ في أنها لا تجوز لامرأة» "There is no disagreement among anyone that it (i.e. khilāfah) is not permissible for a woman." [Al-Fasl fi Al-Milal wal-Ahwa' wa An-Nihal, 4/129] (2) Ash-Shawkāni rahimahullah stated in Nayl al-Awtar: «فيه دليل على أن المرأة ليست من أهل الولايات، ولا يحل لقومها توليتها؛ لأن تجنب الأمر الموجب لعدم الفلاح واجب» "This serves as evidence that a woman is not eligible for leadership positions, and it is impermissible for her people to appoint her to such roles, as avoiding matters that lead to failure is obligatory."