The Pessimist

The Afghani high court is presently trying one of their citizens for the capital crime of converting to Christianity.

"We will invite him again because the religion of Islam is one of tolerance. We will ask him if he has changed his mind. If so we will forgive him," trial judge Ansarullah Mawlazezadah told the BBC on Monday. "But if he refused to reconvert [he will be put to death]" BBC

Wait a minute. This isn't a pronouncement by some back-water Taliban warlord in the mountains around Kandahar. This is the high court of the official government in Kabul.

Yes, it seems Saria Law makes it a crime for a Muslim to renounce the faith of Islam. (I guess this is the same Sharia law that pronounces that girls may not receive an education; and that anyone providing an education to girls shall be beheaded !)

Would Stephen Harper please remind me why Canadian soldiers are supporting and protecting this government? President Karzai has stated that he will not intervene in this case.

Mr. Karzai has another think coming. If this case goes forward and a conviction and execution ensues, than his government has to be replaced. He has to take immediate action to remove this judge from the bench (or whatever Mullah judges sit on), or he must forego all Western aid and protection.

We live in a pluralist society. We do not care if you believe in this god or that, or no god or lots of gods. But the state cannot be allowed to use its power to coerce one god for all. And our society cannot allow another society to do so either. At least, not one that expects our help and trade. If they want to live in the dark ages, then that is where they should live.