The execution of Shiite Cleric, Sheikh al-Nimr has sparked protests in the Northern part of the country. Shites in Kano took to the streets to air their displeasure over the recent increase in Shi’a persecution.
Saudi Arabia’s monarchical government on Saturday executed 47 members of the Shiite movement including top cleric Sheikh al-Nimr, from the eastern part of Saudi Arabia who has been a vocal critic of the Saudi Royal family.
This development occurs just four weeks after the Nigerian military had a brawl with Shiite protesters in the Kaduna city of Zaria where several shiites lost their lives. The international human rights community and advocacy groups have condemned both the actions by the Nigerian military and the execution of Sheikh al-Nimr.
The execution of Sheikh al-Nimr has exacerbated sectarian tensions in select pockets around the Middle East and Muslim world with anger being directed toward the Saudi government.
No comments:
Post a Comment