In June 2011, the government decided to retain Islam as the state religion. Amendments to the constitution are being proposed which seek to restore certain aspects of secularism, but for the Christian minority, little change is expected. In general, believers have freedom to worship. However, conversion from Islam is considered shameful and evangelizing Muslims is risky. Local authorities and the Muslim majority may disturb church meetings or put believers under pressure. There were reports of Christians being physically harmed, and homes or meeting places attacked.
Pray:
- Praise God that a believer who stood trial for distributing Christian literature near a major Muslim gathering was exonerated by the court.
- For Muslim-background believers – especially women, who face increased physical and emotional abuse.
- For Open Doors’ literacy programs, which reach many believers and non-believers in rural areas.
