Produced by the Saudi channel MBC, the series Muawiyah has sparked controversy in many countries, sometimes even before it is shown.
With a budget of $100 million, this 30-episode series traces the career of Muawiyah ibn Abi Sufyan, the first caliph of the Umayyad dynasty, whose reign marked the division between Sunnis and Shiites. The series is written by Egyptian journalist Khaled Salah and directed by Palestinian-American film-maker Tareq Al-Erian.
The controversy began when the Iraqi politician Moqtada al-Sadr described Muawiyah ibn Abi Sufyan on Twitter as “the source of inter-sectarian disputes between Sunnis and Shiites.” For this reason the series was banned in Iraq. The Iraqi Media and Communications Commission said in a statement: “Broadcasting controversial historical works can spark ideological debates, which negatively affect social cohesion, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.”
There was also criticism on Egyptian social media, accusing the series of presenting a false view of history.
Despite the controversy, MBC has decided to continue broadcasting the series in several countries. Currently it is being shown in Kuwait, Morocco, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Sources: TSA, Ahram, Middle East Eye
