Somali government bans Christmas celebrations
The Somali government has banned Christmas celebrations in the country, saying such celebrations threaten the faith and beliefs of Muslims.
An official from the Somali Ministry of Religious Affairs has said that these celebrations have no connection to Islam in any way.
Somali security forces have been ordered to be on high alert and prevent any gatherings on the occasion.
Foreigners living in Somalia can celebrate in their homes, but hotels and other public places in Somalia are prohibited from holding any kind of event.
Mohamed Khairu, a senior official in Somalia's Ministry of Justice and Religious Affairs, has said that it is not right for Somali Muslims to celebrate Christmas, and that doing so would mean abandoning religious restrictions and principles.
Journalists say that the situation in Somalia is improving after years of civil war, and a large number of Somalis living abroad are returning to their country, some of whom are bringing Western customs and cultures with them.
