Slimane Bouhafs
Photo: World Watch Monitor
Slimane Bouhafs, a Muslim-background Christian, is reportedly facing threats of violence in an Algerian prison. Members of his family are worried about his health, which has faltered due to lack of medical care, and have expressed concern over the threats he has recently received from fellow prisoners.
The 49-year-old believer was arrested on July 31st for posting a message on Facebook allegedly characterizing Islam as a lie. (An earlier report on Slimane's arrest may be reviewed here.) Militant Muslims within the prison have threatened to beat Slimane because he objected to the views of an imam who publicly insulted Christians and Christianity.
"Slimane was defending Christianity, calling for more religious freedom and freedom of speech, which provoked the attempted attack," reports an analyst for Middle East Concern. Aware of the planned attack, an inmate warned the prison guards who subsequently separated Slimane from his would-be assailants. For more information on persecution in Algeria, visit our country report at our Algeria Country Report.
Please pray that Slimane's health will be fully restored. Ask the Lord to keep him safe from danger and put a stop to any further threats -- in the meanwhile, strengthening his resolve to continue standing firm and defending the faith he holds so dear. May the Holy Spirit work mightily in the hearts and lives of the prisoners (and prison workers as well), revealing to them the reality of our Risen Lord Jesus who is longing to be their Saviour too.
Population
