A Mauritanian branch of Ansar al Sharia, the political face of al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb, has emerged openly since its founding in Dar Naim central prison. One of its Salafist leaders recently invited all Mauritanians to join; the latest Ansar al Sharia event was held on June 21 in Nouakchott. Some extremist imams and politicians have joined the group, which is calling for the imposition of sharia law.
