approaching, the Federal Government of Somalia has
banned the celebrations of yuletide in the capital,
Mogadishu.
The Somalian government argued that celebrating
Christmas and New Year is against the faith of the
country’s majority Muslims and won’t condone its
celebration anywhere in the country.
It, however, did not state what punishments would be
meted out on anyone or groups that violate the order
only that the security forces have been put on notice to
ensure there should be no “activity at all” in relation to
Christmas and New Year.
Director General of the war-torn country’s Ministry of
Religious Affairs, Sheikh Mohamed Khayrow,
announced the decision Tuesday at a Press Conference
held in Mogadishu alongside the Vice Chairman of the
Supreme Religious Council (SRC), Sheikh Nur Barud
Gurhan.
“All events related to Christmas and New Year
celebrations are contrary to Islamic culture, which could
damage aqidah (faith) of the Muslim community”,
Khayrow said.
“All security forces are advised to halt or dissolve any
gatherings. There should be no activity at all”, he added.
Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Religious Council of
Somalia, Sheikh Nur Barud Gurhan, claimed that
celebrating Christmas and New Year – which are
popular festivities among Christians – could motivate
terror group, Al-Shabaab, to launch attacks in the
capital.
“We [Islamic Scholars] are warning against the
celebration of such events which are not relevant to the
principles of our religion. Such events also give al-
Shabaab motivation to carry out attacks”, he warned.
Sources: Live From Mogadishu/Horseed Media
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