A Mauritanian secondary school student has been arrested for writing an exam paper considered insulting to the Prophet Muhammad in last month's baccalaureate exams.
Domestic media have reported that religious authorities demanded the death penalty if the young woman, who has not been named, is found guilty of blasphemy in court.
Mauritania has strengthened blasphemy laws, prescribing the death penalty for Muslims who "ridicule or insult God or the Prophet, even if they repent".
Previously people could avoid the death sentence if they expressed remorse.
Pan-Arab news outlet al-Quds al-Araby reported on Wednesday that the student is from the north-western town of Atar and comes from the Haratin ethnic group, who are the descendants of slaves of sub-Saharan origin.
Latest Stories
-
Kuami Eugene shows leadership; mobilises fellow artistes for peace song
25 mins -
The JOY Prime Made in Ghana Fair: Why not miss it!
59 mins -
GPL 2024/25: Struggling Asante Kotoko aim to bounce back against high-flying Nations FC
1 hour -
GES Deputy D-G admonishes students to uphold integrity and teamwork
2 hours -
Election 2024: Osabarima Dr Owusu Beyeeman advocates for peace
2 hours -
Fashion at Joy Prime Made in Ghana Fair
4 hours -
Alan Kyerematen wanted me to be his running mate – Okyeame Kwame
4 hours -
AFCON 2025Q: Otto Addo calls up Jerry Afriyie, two others for Niger clash
6 hours -
Vacant Seats: Supreme Court failed to strengthen Ghana’s democracy – NDC’s Beatrice Annan
6 hours -
Coop Kee makes bold statement with ‘Ohemaa’
6 hours -
Judiciary not a rubber stamp for Jubilee House decisions – Atta Akyea asserts
7 hours -
Judiciary being manipulated by politicians – Franklin Cudjoe claims
7 hours -
NPP slams ‘unwarranted and disgraceful’ attacks on Kufuor
7 hours -
Election 2024: Dampare cautions public against electoral misconduct
7 hours -
Mahama: Voting for Bawumia is endorsing mismanagement
7 hours