02/23/2021 Sudan (International Christian Concern) – The Morning Star News has reported that a Sudanese Christian leader was beaten on Friday, February 19th, after protesting the burning of a church building. According to sources, Osama Saeed Kodi, chairman of the Christian Youth Union of Al Jazirah state, was also handcuffed, blindfolded and detained by national security personnel.
“I have been brutally beaten by national security personnel on my chest and on my right leg,” stated Kodi after his horrific ordeal, “I am still in pain as a result of this beating. I thank all those who stood with me during the detention. I shall continue to defend the right of the church despite all these obstacles.”
Kodi, reportedly released from detainment after a few hours, was attacked after speaking out against the burning of The Sudanese Church of Christ (SCOC) last month. The attack marked the ninth church since 2019 to be incinerated by Islamic extremists.
Sudan was listed as the 13th most difficult country to be a Christian according to Open Doors’ 2021 World Watch List. The 90% Muslim nation, known for its strict adherence to Sharia law and persecution of Christians, is currently undergoing a change in government structure due to the removal of Islamist dictator Omar al-Bashir in 2019. While Christians have renewed hope for expressing their beliefs, they need our continued prayers and support as the government solidifies new regulations for its people. Please join us in praying for the perseverance and growth of the Sudan church, as well as for government leaders to continue taking steps towards religious freedom and protection of all citizens.
For interviews please contact Alison Garcia at press@persecution.org.
