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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books On the Shore of Contemplation, Volume 1 Criticizing the Supreme Leader Question: Can the Supreme Leader be criticized? Who has the right to do this and under what conditions can he do this? It is permissible to criticize the Supreme Leader, however in doing so, the following points must be observed: Islamic etiquette must be observed at the time of criticizing and in this regards, the Supreme Leader is the same as all other believers.

It must be noted that the conditions of criticizing include the following: a. Before criticism, the original subject matter, defect or shortcoming must be definite. This means that it must not be based on rumor or information which cannot be relied upon. It must also not be based upon one’s supposition and without any sort of research such that something is unjustly attributed to an individual and is then used to bring about objections and criticism upon him. b.

The criticism must be done in order to bring about a reformation and improvement – not that one becomes a fault picker and one who seeks to disgrace people. c. The criticism must be done because one feels sympathy and consideration for the other party and not because he wishes to be thought of as being greater than the other person. d. The criticism must be done with no insult or abuse. Rather, it must be carried out with complete etiquette and by observing the status which the person holds.

Certainly there is clear difference when it comes to a person criticizing his friend; a wife censuring her husband; a child pointing out the slips of his father or a student noting the errors of his teacher, than there is in criticizing a religious leader and authority. The child and a student both owe a certain level of respect to their father and teacher, however above these people is the respect and honor which the Imam (AS) and his representative deserve.