Turkmenistan (MNN) — A new Turkish president promises to make the internet more available to
citizens. Back to the Bible believes this is an open door for evangelism.
Turkmenistan is currently #13 on the Open Door's World Watch List for Christian persecution. On December 21, 2006, the president and dictator, Saparmurat Niyazov, who supported and mandated hostility toward religious freedom died unexpectedly. He
had implemented a national guide to living called the Ruhnama, which he placed in most libraries and schools. A question concerning the Ruhnama was even included on driving tests.
During the approximately two-month period in which temporary leaders were in control, it became apparent that Niyazov's subordinates not only implemented his will but supported his views. They praised his policies and vowed to continue them.
Farid Tukhbatullin of the Turkmen Initiative for Human Rights says, "The overwhelming majority of officials of the police and MSS secret police have a vested interest in preserving the current situation, under which they enjoy unlimited rights."
In February, a new leader was elected.
Increased availability of the internet will hopefully make ministry via the Web more accessible. Pray that evangelism will continue to become more possible under the new leader.
