Supreme Court demands Wesley Girls’ SHS response to Muslim rights restriction claims

The Supreme Court has ordered Wesley Girls’ Senior High School to officially respond to claims that it prevents Muslim students from practising their religion.

These claims form the basis of a lawsuit filed by private legal practitioner Shafic Osman.

On Tuesday, November 25, 2025, the Court gave the school 14 days to answer the factual allegations so the case can proceed.

Mr. Osman alleges that the school enforces rules that stop Muslim students from praying and fasting, and requires them to take part in Methodist religious activities because the school was founded by the Methodist Church.

He argues that these actions amount to discrimination and a violation of the students’ religious rights.

During the hearing, the Attorney-General asked to withdraw and replace an earlier Statement of Case.

The Court, led by Justice Gabriel Scott Pawmang, accepted the revised document but noted that it still failed to respond to the key factual issues raised in the lawsuit.

As a result, the Court directed the school’s Board of Governors, the first defendant, to directly address the allegations.

The judges stressed that accusations suggesting Muslim students are being prevented from practising their faith are serious and must be clearly answered.

Deputy Attorney-General Dr. Justice Srem-Sai did not oppose the order, explaining that the amended Statement of Case focused mainly on the constitutional principles for evaluating restrictions on religious freedom.

Wesley Girls’ Senior High School now has 14 days from the date it is served to file its response, explain its religious policies, and justify any restrictions placed on Muslim students, if such restrictions exist.