As this report notes, “the country of 300,000 people forbids practice of religions other than Sunni Islam,” and our archives chronicle numerous other abuses. While the president lodges his protest here against stonings and amputations, the country’s foreign minister has said that Sharia’s punishments such as flogging for adultery are basic Islamic principles not up for debate. No one can argue with Allah, the foreign minister said.
“Maldives president condemns protest call from Islamic groups,” from the Associated Press, December 19:
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka “” The president of Maldives has condemned a protest planned by an Islamic party against what it calls anti-Islamic activities in the country.
A government statement Monday quoted President Mohamed Nasheed as saying that the real goal of the protest is the introduction of Islamic penalties such as stoning, amputations and executions.
Nasheed defended working women and said Maldives should continue to practice a moderate form of Islam that allows recreation, sports and music. […]
The country of 300,000 people forbids practice of religions other than Sunni Islam.