Women’s Leadership and Rights in Islam: Often Misinterpret by the Ecclesiastics 

Promoting the doxa of a dominant religion in unfitting fashion can jeopardize the harmony of Bangladesh society.

Dr Pamelia Riviere 

According to Dhaka Tribune, a derogatory post was given by the leader of Jamat against Bangladeshi women, women's work and women leadership in society: “We believe that when women are pushed out of the house in the name of modernity, they face exploitation, moral degradation and insecurity. This is actually another form of prostitution. “The party's election committee member stated that the post was quickly removed.

On February 2, 2026, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, the party's Ameer, clarified that misinformation was circulating about their stance on women. He emphasized the party's commitment to women's education, safety, equal pay, healthcare, and employment opportunities, stating their manifesto supports women's active participation in various sectors.

Advocating for the Doxas

Regrettably, the Amir of Jamat does not exemplify the characteristics of a peaceful and progressive Islamic leadership that is crucial for fostering a harmonious and inclusive society. Instead, his stance perpetuates division and undermines the core values of compassion and understanding that the religion promotes about women.

Historically, it is undeniable that Islam bestowed upon women a range of rights unparalleled in many contemporary societies, a significant advancement occurring 1,400 years ago when women's rights were largely nonexistent in the majority of cultures, including compared to the Roman Empire. 

The revolutionary framework of Islam not only acknowledged women's dignity but also empowered them socially, economically, and politically.
However, the rhetoric and actions of this conservative leader starkly contradict the fundamental teachings of Islam, which advocate for justice, equality, and respect for all individuals that includes women. 

The true essence of women's role in Islam has often been overshadowed by misinterpretations from certain clerics, which has distorted the rich and empowering teachings of the faith.

Shafiqur Rahman, the Ameer of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, has ignited a firestorm of criticism with his recent comments about women's roles in leadership. He boldly stated that women will not hold the top position in his party and revealed that Jamaat has chosen not to nominate any female candidates for the upcoming parliamentary elections. This announcement has sparked intense debate and backlash across various sectors of society.

The Jamat leader made an imprudent statement regarding breastfeeding, suggesting that a man cannot breastfeed because he was not created for that purpose. Additionally, he made an ill-informed comment on women's leadership and the influence of cultural norms in Bangladesh, despite the fact that the country has been successfully led by two female Prime Ministers for several decades.

Ignorance isn't Always Bliss.

The Amir of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, Shafiqur Rahman, stated in a recent interview with Al Jazeera that women cannot hold the position of chief in Jamaat-e-Islami. He commented that Allah created inherent differences between men and women. In response to a question about the possibility of women leading the party, Shafiqur stated, "It’s not possible, it’s not possible because Allah has made everyone in their own way. It’s because you will never be able to bear a child." A clip from his interview with the Qatar-based news outlet is currently circulating on social media. 

The Amir added, "We will never be able to feed our breast to a child. This is given by Allah. And there are some differences between men and women. What Allah has created, we cannot alter." 

When asked about the number of female candidates they had put forward in the parliamentary elections on February 12, he responded, "Not a single one in these elections. However, we are working towards that." 

He continued, "We have already taken part in local government elections where our women ran and won... But we are preparing to do the same in Parliament in the future." He stated, "You won't see a significant number of female candidates in other parties either because this is a cultural aspect in Bangladesh. We are getting ready for that." He made this comment in reference to the number of women candidates nominated by other political parties for the upcoming elections. 

The interviewer remarked, "Interestingly! You’re suggesting they can't lead an organization while they can serve as the prime minister of a nation with 170 million people. Clearly, women are capable of taking on leadership roles." In reply, Shafiqur Rahman noted, "Even most countries in the world do not find this feasible. This is the reality of the world," as reported by New Age on January 30, 2026.

 Women's Leadership on a Global Scale

Across world history, many remarkable women leaders—among them queens—have risen to prominence, using their influence to impact nations and kingdoms. These remarkable female leaders didn’t just occupy thrones; they carved out legacies, steering their countries through triumphs and tribulations. Their stories are a testament to courage, wisdom, and the power of leadership in a world often dominated by men. 

 Since the mid-20th century, starting with Sirimavo Bandaranaike, the world's first female Prime Minister in 1960, the presence of women in leadership roles has surged. Pioneering figures such as Indira Gandhi, Golda Meir, and Margaret Thatcher paved the way for future generations, while modern icons like Angela Merkel and Jacinda Ardern continue to exemplify effective female leadership. These leaders have broken barriers as elected presidents, prime ministers, and monarchs, demonstrating that women are fully capable of fulfilling leadership roles on the global stage.

Throughout history, several remarkable women have made significant strides in politics, breaking barriers and leading their countries. Sirimavo Bandaranaike of Sri Lanka became the world’s first female Prime Minister in 1960, paving the way for future female leaders. In India, Indira Gandhi dominated the political landscape from the 1960s to the 1980s, while Golda Meir in Israel emerged as one of the early female heads of government. Isabel Perón made history as Argentina's first female president in 1974, and Margaret Thatcher, known as the "Iron Lady," became the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom in 1979.

 In 1986, Corazon Aquino was elected as the first female president in Asia, followed closely by Benazir Bhutto of Pakistan, who led as the first woman of a Muslim nation in 1988. Vigdís Finnbogadóttir of Iceland stands out as the world’s first democratically elected female president. Megawati Sukarnoputri was the most prominent female leader in Indonesian history, serving as the 5th President of Indonesia from 2001 to 2004. 

In the 21st century, female leaders continued to shape global politics. Angela Merkel of Germany served as a long-term Chancellor and was a key figure in the European Union. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf made history as Africa's first elected female head of state in Liberia, while Jacinda Ardern of New Zealand became known for her crisis leadership. Additionally, Dilma Rousseff served as Brazil's first female president, and Michelle Bachelet of Chile held the position twice, also advocating for UN initiatives. Hilary Clinton was the 67th United States secretary of state in the administration of Barack Obama from 2009 to 2013, and Kamala Harris made headlines as the first female Vice President of the United States. 

Begum Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh are noted as the longest-serving female leaders in Bangladesh history. These women have not only led their nations but have also inspired countless others around the world. 

Women Leadership in Britain

In British history, there have been eight women who held the title of queen in their own right, known as queens regnant. Among these, six are typically recognized as undisputed rulers. These notable queens include Elizabeth I, Queen Victoria, and Elizabeth II, as well as Mary I, Mary II, and Anne. Additionally, there are two figures—Matilda and Jane Grey—whose claims to the throne are often considered more disputed.

Currently, key female figures in the UK government cabinet include Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, and Education Secretary and Minister for Women and Equalities Bridget Phillipson. Throughout its history, the UK has seen three female Prime Ministers: Margaret Thatcher, Theresa May, and Liz Truss.

Women Leadership in India

Throughout Indian history, numerous queens, regents, and warrior rulers have governed with independence, commanded armies, and managed states across different eras. The vast timeline of India makes it challenging to provide an exact count of these powerful women. Some notable figures include: Razia Sultana (1236–1240), the first and only female ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, she navigated a male-dominated political landscape. Rani Lakshmibai, a famed warrior queen known for her bravery during the 1857 revolt against British rule. 

Ahilyabai Holkar, a renowned queen of the Maratha Empire, celebrated for her exceptional administrative skills and contributions to infrastructure and culture.

 Rani Rudrama Devi of the Kakatiya Dynasty in South India stands out as one of the few powerful ruling queens of her time, challenging gender norms and asserting her authority. Similarly, Didda of Kashmir is remembered for her strong leadership, having ruled sovereignly for 22 years. Tarabai Bhonsle also played a significant role in the Maratha resistance against Mughal expansion. 

In the 1st century BCE, Queen Nayanika became the first confirmed female ruler or regent of the Satavahana Empire, paving the way for future generations. Lastly, Rani Durgavati, who governed Gondwana, is celebrated for her courageous defense of her kingdom against Mughal forces. Together, these queens exemplify courage and leadership, shaping the course of history in their regions.

The queen of Ullal known for her courageous resistance against Portuguese colonial forces. These women defied patriarchal norms to hold absolute power and make significant contributions to their regions and histories.

Women Leadership in Islam

Female leadership within the Islamic world is supported by a rich historical and scriptural foundation that highlights the roles of women as scholars, rulers, and entrepreneurs. Prominent figures include Khadijah (RA) and various modern political leaders. While discussions persist regarding women in supreme religious or military positions, Islam generally allows for women's participation in qualified leadership roles, emphasizing complementary responsibilities, education, and active engagement in the public sphere. According to Egypt's Dar Al-Ifta, more than fifty women have historically ruled Muslim countries. 

Notable examples include Sit Al-Mulk, a Fatimid ruler of Egypt in the 5th century Hijrah; Queen Asma and Queen Arwa, who governed San‘a’ at the end of the 5th century Hijrah; Zaynab An-Nafzawiyah in Al-Andalus; Sultan Radiyyah, who ruled Delhi in the mid-7th century Hijrah; and Shajarat Ad-Dur, who led Egypt during the same century. Other notable female leaders include A’ishah Al-Hurrah in Al-Andalus, Sit Al-Arab, Sit Al-‘Ajam, Sit Al-Wuzaraa’, Ash-Sharifah Al-Fatimiyah, Al-Ghaliyah Al-Wahhabiyah, Al-Khatun Khatla’ Turkan, Al-Khatun Badshah, Ghazalah Ash-Shabibah, among many others. 

Additionally, the Quran acknowledges the significance of female leadership, with the Queen of Sheba serving as an exemplary figure of consultative ruling, highlighting the positive role of women in governance throughout Islamic history.

Quran provides a comprehensive code covering social, moral, commercial, and criminal behavior. While it is the cornerstone of Islamic jurisprudence, it is not universally recognized as the world's first-ever legal code, but rather a central, timeless, and authoritative legal, social, and moral framework for Muslims. 

In the Holy Quran, the Queen of Sheba is recognized as a female leader. Women in Arabia were engaged in business and could even participate in the military during wartime. However, it is evident that some Islamic clerics have undermined these values and ideals regarding women's leadership in society.

Unfortunately, it has been the conservative Muslim ecclesiastics, such as the Amir of Jamaat, who have undermined the essence of Islam. Islamic laws could be reformed and modernized if clerics were to interpret the Quranic rules and teachings in light of contemporary scientific understanding.

 Challenging Endeavor

Obliviousness regarding women's capabilities in leadership roles in Islamic countries is a significant debated issue. The Jamaat leader has claimed that women are not suited for such positions. However, evidence from both the Eastern and Western worlds contradicts this notion, showcasing the successful contributions of female leaders across the globe. 

The world cannot ignore the impact of religion and must remain vigilant against its misuse of dogmas. Misinterpretation of religious concepts is causing issues in countries like Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, Israel, and the United States. Advocating for the doctrines of a dominant religion in Bangladesh or any nation may pose risks to social cohesion.

The writer is a freelance analyst.