In the US, Obama is dogged by rumors that he's a Muslim, which to many Americans is a compelling reason not to vote for him. (Colin Powell regains a tiny shred of self-respect with his
comment: "Well, the correct answer is, he is not a Muslim," Powell said. "He's a Christian. He's always been a Christian. But the really right answer is, what if he is? Is there something wrong with being a Muslim in this country? The answer's no. That's not America.")
In the Maldives, Mohamed Nasheed is challenging the quasi-dictator Maumon Abdul Gayoom in what seems to be a relatively free and fair election. However, Gayoom has responded to the threat by spreading unfounded rumors about his opponent's religion:
"I do believe he (Nasheed) could spread Christianity," said Aishath Sulthana, a 32-year-old mother of five who planned to vote for Gayoom.
Surely this speaks for itself?
