Supreme Court Orders Wesley Girls SHS to Respond to Alleged Religious Restrictions on Muslim Students
Wesley Girls’ SHS given 14 days by the Supreme Court to clarify religious policies amid allegations of restricting Muslim students’ rights
- Supreme Court orders Wesley Girls SHS to respond to allegations of restricting Muslim students’ religious practices
- School has 14 days to submit a statement clarifying its religious policies
- Claims include forcing participation in Methodist activities and preventing fasting and prayer.
The Supreme Court has directed Wesley Girls’ Senior High School to formally respond to claims that it restricts Muslim students from practicing their faith, a central issue in a suit filed by private lawyer Shafic Osman.
On Tuesday, November 25, 2025, the Court granted the school 14 days to submit answers to the factual allegations, a step necessary for the proper determination of the case.
Osman alleges that the school enforces policies preventing Muslim students from observing religious duties such as fasting and prayer, while compelling participation in Methodist activities, reflecting the school’s Methodist foundation. He argues that such practices constitute systemic rights violations and religious discrimination.
During the proceedings, the Attorney-General sought to withdraw and replace an earlier Statement of Case.
The Supreme Court, led by Justice Gabriel Scott Pawmang, permitted the replacement but expressed concern that the amended statement did not directly address the core allegations. Consequently, the Court ruled that the Board of Governors of Wesley Girls’ School, as the first defendant, must respond to the claims.
The bench stressed the seriousness of allegations that the school prevents Muslim students from practicing their religion. Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai did not oppose the directive, noting that the amended Statement of Case primarily discussed constitutional principles for assessing restrictions on religious rights.
Wesley Girls’ SHS is now required to file its statement within 14 days, clarifying its religious policies and justifying any restrictions imposed on Muslim students, if any.
