How will Ramadan affect unrest in Africa?
The holy month of Ramadan is a time of fasting, prayer, reflection and acts of charity for Muslims everywhere. So what impact will it have in places of conflict and unrest such as Libya, Egypt and Somalia?
Would a break in the fighting in Libya give either side the upper hand in the conflict?
In Egypt tensions are high ahead of the trial of former President Hosni Mubarak. The Egyptian military have dismantled the tents of protesters who have camped out in Tahrir square for the last 3 weeks. Will Ramadhan have a calming effect?
With thousands of Muslims across the continent observing the demands of the Ramadan fast, will other protests and strikes prove too demanding to sustain?
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Comment number 1.
At 13:46 2nd Aug 2011, Howard Ayo wrote:I do not think Ramadan will have any profound effect in stopping any unrest, actually it will provide avenue for strengthening and re-strategizing on the either sides.
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Comment number 2.
At 16:19 2nd Aug 2011, Malumbusho wrote:its unbelievable this topic came live on BBC, in Malawi the President had a national address urging protestors to refrain on the 17 August Demonstrations giving time for our dear brothers ( Muslims).
But I feel Malawi are looking eager to demonstrations though!!!
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Comment number 3.
At 17:31 2nd Aug 2011, MohammedAdamu wrote:The tendency to view islam on the basis of violence or blood shedding is never a justice to the muslim community, as islam is totally against such dastardly act, "BOKA HARAMS'" ideology is a complete distortion of scriptures! From Mohammed Adamu. Gombe, (Nigeria).
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Comment number 4.
At 18:53 2nd Aug 2011, Sagar wrote:I think any religious faith combined with utter desperation can only make people more fired up. So I feel Ramadan will further strengthen the unrest.
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Comment number 5.
At 08:20 3rd Aug 2011, Noah Nash wrote:Fasting comes with much blesses. it is the period that one must show love to one another. But the fasting is in bad taste now since alot of people are bitter in their heart. if you cant forgive an opponent now then it is now bad one.
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Comment number 6.
At 11:59 3rd Aug 2011, Olugbemiga wrote:This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.
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Comment number 7.
At 12:35 4th Aug 2011, Brian Brown wrote:This comment was removed because the moderators found it broke the house rules. Explain.
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