Egypt: mob of 50,000 Muslims intimidated Christians before referendum
December 21, 2012
An estimated 50,000 Muslims took to the streets of Asyut, a central Egyptian city of 400,000, to intimidate Christians on the eve of Egypt’s constitutional referendum, according to the Associated Press.
Marching through Christian neighborhoods, they shouted, “Islamic, Islamic, despite the Christians.” 93% of the area’s Christians did not vote in the December 15 constitutional plebiscite that followed, and stones were thrown at some Christians who attempted to vote.
Egypt’s ruling Muslim Brotherhood party claimed a 57%-43% victory in the first round of voting for the new constitution, which grants an even greater role to sharia law.
For all current news, visit our News home page.
Further information:
- Intimidation, fear keep Egypt’s Christians away from polls on disputed charter (AP)
- Egypt: some Christians not permitted to cast ballots (CWN, 12/18)
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
