The severe persecution of Christians in Africa was highlighted by Members of Parliament in a House of Commons, England, according to Christian Solidarity Worldwide.

Alistair Burt, a conservative MP for North East Bedfordshire, introduced the debate, "we are standing up for the rights of persecuted Christians and trying to dispute for human rights abuses. We are here for human rights to be more respected in the whole world."

"In Africa, especially in Nigeria, some northern Muslim states have enforced Shari'ah Law to all residents which is the start of violence and persecution toward Christians," said Burt.

"Some Muslims want Shari'ah Law to be applied in all 36 states of Nigeria. Then the majority Muslims will challenge Nigerian constitution and finally make Nigeria a complete Muslim state."

The persecution happens also in Eritrea. David Drew, Labour MP for Stroud pointed out the severe persecution toward Christian soldiers. He said "some Christian soldiers were shot after being discovered reading the bible. Often they are arrested, assaulted or sexually abused."

Andrew Selous, Conservative MP for South-West Bedfordshire mentioned Ethiopia also for individual tragedies constantly happening. "Muslims who have converted to Christianity had their lives threatened. Sometimes they were beaten and hospitalized."

Most of the MPs who attended in the debate approved Christian Solidarity Worldwide's contribution for the research and verification of allegations.

CSW chief executive, Mervyn Thomas appreciated the MPs' concerns about persecuted Christians in Africa. "We'll be looking for the points raised in this debate to be taken on board in the UK's future relations with African countries."

By Young Sun Lee
yslee@chtoday.com