Jihadists’ Fierce Justice Drives Thousands to Flee Mali

Islamic extremists have imposed or rather inforced a strict form of justice to parts of Africa. A makeshift camp made up of what people are calling an influx jihadists has made it's way in the Malian region. Timbuktu has been hit the hardest by this sudden drive. Many Malians have become sick and hungry with the feeling of no hope to live as a location that western tourist want to visit again. Refugees of this region say they have witnessed whippings, beatings and punishments in the streets for violating the Islamic law. The refugees mentioned there were armed men of all races, "black, brown, yellow and white." The Islamists have torn down several tombs of holy men, saying this was contrary to the holy Islam book the Shariah. Also, women are big targets. Aishatta Abdou was chased off the street at gunpoint for walking with her husband. Another woman was forced out of her car at gunpoint because she was the only woman in the car. The Islamic extremists have forced their sense of women's rights to this region. Many people who have lived in this region their entire life are fleeing for freedom. The Malian government is in a tough position and does not know which way to turn. "They have imposed a kind of religion on us that we have not seen." Mr. Sidi from the Malian government stated.


http://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/18/world/africa/jidhadists-fierce-justice-drives-thousands-to-flee-mali.html?pagewanted=2&_r=0&ref=africa
New York Times
By: Adam Nossiter
Kacie Greer