Paul KeenanBrunei – The south-east Asian sultanate has introduced elements of sharia law into its Penal Code. Announcing the introduction, over the next six months, of punishments such as stoning for adultery, hand amputation for thieves, and flogging for a host of misdemeanours, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah said: “By the grace of Allah, with the coming into effect of this legislation, our duty to Allah is therefore being fulfilled.”
The new sharia elements will apply only to the country’s 70% Muslim population, though fears have been expressed that the law will be applied universally, despite assurances.