Some leading Muslim clerics in the self-declared republic of
Somaliland have urged their followers not to celebrate Valentine’s
Day, saying it is contrary to the teachings of Islam.
The clerics made similar appeals in previous years, but have
been more vocal in their opposition this year.j
Some people disagree with them, arguing that celebrating love
has always been part of the culture of Somalis – and one of their
most celebrated poets, Elmi Bodheri, is said to have died of
love.
But the Muslim clerics still object because the day gets its
name from St Valentine, a Christian priest from Rome in the third
century AD.