UN speaks out on Muslims, Anglican fight over hijabs

United Nation (UN) has called for religious tolerance in Malawi following a fight between Christian and Muslim groups in Balaka.

In a statement released on November 5 signed by United Nations Resident Coordinator Ms. Maria Jose Torres, the body has asked the Anglican Church in the country to allow Muslim leaners to be putting on hijabs.

“Preventing access to services such as education because students choose to wear an expression of their religion goes against these important human rights and international standards on freedom of education. Section 36 (3)(c) (III) of the Education Act (2013) stipulates that: “the school or college shall not impose restrictions of whatever nature with respect to the admission of students, recruitment and appointment of staff.”

“Such actions discourage girls from attending school, denying them the right to learn and actively participate in society, at a time when Malawi is focusing on ending child marriage and keeping girls in school,” reads in part the statement.

She added: “All forms of violence, including endangering lives and the destruction of private and public property are considered criminal and unacceptable.

“The United Nations calls on all Malawians to respect each other’s religious beliefs and engage in peaceful dialogue to resolve differences. We also call on State authorities to ensure that all people of Malawi are able to exercise their beliefs and cultural practices free from persecution and discrimination.”

On November 4 Muslims invaded Anglican School in the district where they smashed windows of the school and the church and least two persons were seriously injured.

Reports that the violence started after two girls were prevented from attending school at M’manga school for wearing a hijab.