Somalia has banned the public celebration of Christmas and New Year festivities, saying it was “contrary to Islamic culture”.
The East African nation follows the example of tiny oil-rich Asian nation of Brunei, which also recently banned the festivities and threatened to punish any Muslim caught celebrating it with up to five years in prison.
“All events related to Christmas and New Year celebrations are contrary to Islamic culture, which could damage aqidah (faith) of the Muslim community.
“There should be no activity at all,” Director General of Somalia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs, Sheikh Mohamed Khayrow was quoted as saying.
Khayrow also said security forces would break up celebrations anywhere it may be held in the capital city, Mogadishu.
Many Muslim clerics have also backed the government’s move, saying it was necessary to avoid provoking attacks by Islamic terror group, Al Shabaab.