Source: SIR
Iraq is heading towards the imposition of Sharia, the Muslim law, after the recent introduction into the holy city of Najaf and into its provinces of laws prohibiting alcohol sales and consumption, applying even to non-Muslim people, as this practice is incompatible with Islam. Commenting on this decision in an interview with the SIR, Father Philip Najim, Chaldean procurator to the Holy See, said “there is the risk that Iraq may stray from the path leading to a solid and lay democracy which is respectful of the rights of everyone, included those of minorities. Religion, whether Christian or Muslim, should contribute to reconciling the country and its people. Politicians have to understand that faith is a value added for Iraq and its desire of recovery”. “I believe – added Najim – that Iraq does not need the introduction of such laws but rather concrete measures promoting the construction of roads, schools and hospitals in order to re-launch the economy and create new jobs for the good of everyone”. However, said the Chaldean procurator, “the Iraqi Constitution is ambiguous to some extent for it stipulates that religious freedom must be respected while, at the same time, prohibiting the promulgation of laws at odds with the Muslim religion”.
