Giza Criminal Court heard the testimony of Al-Azhar Grand Sheikh Mohamed Sayyed Tantawi in a libel and slander case that he filed against Adel Hamouda, in his capacity as "Al-Fagr" newspaper editor in chief, and Mohamed Al-Baz, a journalist for the same newspaper.
Tantawi said that what the paper had published – a picture of him wearing Christian clothes - was an insult to him and Al-Azhar and a blasphemous act against Islam.
The court asked Tantawi if he had really received an invitation to visit the Vatican. He replied that he had received such an invitation but that he had refused it. He also dismissed as groundless the reports on his intention to visit the Vatican.
Al-Baz asked Tantawi in the courtroom: "Does Islam make it incumbent upon Al-Azhar Grand Sheikh to wear a certain uniform? Tantawi said "No" and affirmed that the matter is related to traditions and customs dating back to a long time ago.
Tantawi added that Islam is a religion of tolerance that calls for dialogue between all the peoples of the world. He added that he is trying to improve Islam's image and illustrate it to those who do not understand it.
The court postponed the session to tomorrow (Monday) to hear the testimony of Muslims Scholars Front Secretary General Ahmed Al-Fadali and the head of the People's Assembly Committee on Foreign Affairs Moustafa Al-Fiqi
source:misr today
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