What is the ruling on a person who slanders the ruler out of fear of him?

Lying is a reprehensible trait in Islamic law, and it has been warned against. The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "Hold fast to truthfulness, for truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise. Beware of lying, for lying leads to immorality, and immorality leads to the Fire."

Scholars have permitted lying if a person fears for his life or property from an oppressor, based on the words of Allah Almighty: "And He has explained in detail to you what He has forbidden you, except what you are compelled to [consume or do]." The preference, if possible, is to use dissimulation (Tawriya).