Somalia also well established, with many local "jama'a" ("zawiya") or congregations of the various "tariiqa" or Sufi orders. The constitution of Somalia likewise defines Islam as the state religion of the Federal Republic of Somalia, and Islamic sharia as the basic source for national legislation. It also stipulates that no law that is inconsistent with the basic tenets of Shari'a can be enacted. Islam entered the region very early on, as a group of persecuted Muslims had sought refuge across the Red Sea in the Horn of Africa at the urging of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. Islam may thus have been
2009 timeline of the War in Somalia attacked government-held districts including Kaaraan, Shibis, Abdiaziz and Wardhigley, where the Villa Somalia presidential palace is located. In the newest fighting, 20 people were reported dead and 60 wounded. Fighting continues in Mogadishu's northern Yaaqshiid and Kaaraan districts. In the continuing fighting another 12 people are reported dead. Unknown gunmen attacked a minibus in the Al-Shabaab controlled Jowhar area. Two people were killed and more wounded. In the Middle Shabelle region clan militias clashed. Eight people were reported dead. ICU forces attacked al-Shabaab forces in the Mahaday district in the Middle Shabelle region. During the fighting eight people were killed.