The President of Burkina Faso, Ibrahim Traore, has vowed never to allow the practice of Sharia Law in the country.
Traore issued the warning during a nationwide broadcast, where he frowned at citizens of the country studying Sharia Law in Saudi Arabia, saying they should instead acquire technological and scientific skills that could contribute to the country’s development.
“I am a Muslim, but everyone in Burkina Faso has the right to practice their own religion. There will never be Sharia law in this country”, Traore said.
He added that students who chose to study Sharia Law rather than technology were not helping Burkina Faso’s progress.
He questioned why the 800 students studying Sharia Law didn’t learn trade or acquire skills.
“To those Burkinabe studying Sharia Law in Saudi Arabia, do not return to Burkina Faso. Instead of acquiring technological knowledge and skills that can develop our country, you chose to study Sharia Law. Stay where you are, you won’t be allowed back here”, he said.
The remarks, reportedly made during an address to Burkina Faso, have gone viral online, where supporters and critics alike have debated his position on religious freedom and national unity.
The President’s comments come as the nation continues to battle violent extremist groups, with his administration repeatedly emphasizing national cohesion over religious divisions.
-9News Nigeria.
