Rise of Islamic parties urges Christians to flee from Egypt

(April 13, 2011) The rise of Islamic parties in the Egyptian Revolution, and the continued enforcement of the Sharia in the villages outside Cairo, has caused fear among Christians. They are now attempting to emigrate to countries with greater religious freedom. According to the Egyptian Federation for Human Rights, more than 70 people a week are asking for information on how to leave the country. The instability of the countries of North Africa and Middle East and the exodus of Christians has caused concern to the Holy See. Fr. Rafic Greich, chief press officer of the Catholic Church and spokesman for the seven Egyptian Catholic denominations told AsiaNews that the current situation in Egypt is deadlocked and is very critical, especially for the Christian communities. He said in this country many extremist groups have emerged - like the Muslim Brotherhood, but more radical groups such as the 'Islamic Jihad Movement and the Salafis are also gaining ground. He stressed the danger of these groups, despite the small number of followers, who can make their voices heard. He said many Christians are leaving because they do not know what will happen in the future.
According to Fr. Greich the presence of the military government is not reassuring, although they have maintained the role of guarantors of security and public order, since the beginning of the Jasmine Revolution.