Tigray Islamic Council Urges Probe Into Aksum Prayer Clashes

Mintesinot Nigussie

The Tigray Islamic Affairs Supreme Council has called for an immediate investigation into unrest that erupted during Friday prayers in Aksum, accusing security forces of disrupting worship and detaining congregants. In a statement, the council said security personnel intervened during the Jum’ah service to halt the call to prayer, describing the action as coercive and a serious breach of religious practice.

It alleged that forces entered mosque premises and carried out acts it characterised as desecration, including damage to copies of the Qur’an. The council condemned the incident as a break from long-standing traditions of religious coexistence in the historic town.

Dozens of worshippers were detained following the incident, according to the council, which said the arrests were unjustified and called for their immediate release. Authorities had reportedly issued prior warnings against the use of loudspeakers during gatherings.

However, the council said the response went beyond enforcement, accusing security forces of confiscating and destroying property belonging to worshippers. The latest unrest comes against a backdrop of rising tensions involving Muslim communities in Aksum in recent months.

Disputes over the wearing of hijabs in local schools have triggered protests, with students and religious leaders accusing authorities of restricting religious expression and access to education. The council urged the government to take legal action against those responsible for the mosque incident.

Businesses and organisations working in interfaith dialogue and community relations are monitoring the situation, as the clashes could impact social cohesion in the region.

Overall, the Tigray Islamic Council’s call for an investigation into the Aksum prayer clashes highlights ongoing concerns about religious freedom and the need for peaceful resolution of tensions in the historic town.