Islamic leaders in parts of Switzerland yesterday opened up the doors of their Masjids as an open invitation to non-Muslims, and not for the purposes of da’wah. Instead, they sought to counter prejudices towards Islam ahead of a highly controversial vote at the end of this month. The ballot to be held on November 29th, as an initiative of the Swiss People’s Party, seeks a constitutional ban on Mosque minarets, which are seen by some as symbols of Islamic political authority. The whole sordid business following on from a now (in)famous and well documented dispute that erupted in some previously unheard of commune back in 2005.
Accounting for some 5% of the population, approximately 400,000 Swiss people identify themselves as Muslims, but of the 200 or so mosques in Switzerland a mere four – yes, that’s four, 4, one above three, one below five, no more, no less – have a minaret. Such political might must surely be crushed! How long before the ‘Muslim Verboten’ signs start to appear? Swiss efficiency being what it is, maybe those seeking a minaret ban should consider stockpiling Zyklon B in readiness . . . .
