'On the evening of Saturday, December 2, I understood during an interrogation by Colne Bakri Hassan Salih (RCC member and head of the revolution security system) that he disapproves of the contents of the courses I teach at the university.'
Fundamentalist security officials considered that Darwinism was incompatible with Islam, and tortured Dr. Farouk in an attempt to recant his views. This opinion was a novel one, as Islam, unlike Christianity, has never before had doctrinal disputes over the theory of evolution. Zaki Bedawi, Principal of the Moslem College in London and Chairman of the Imams and Mosques Association, said "I don't see a contradiction between (evolution theory) and Islam."
Dr. Farouk's letter detailed his ordeal:
'I was flogged, kicked, hit in the face, head, and other parts of the body by professional torturers. I was threatened with death, humiliated and subjected to other types of torture. Afterwards, I was transferred to a small toilet that was flooded with water where I spent three days during which time I was beaten, humiliated, and deprived of sleep. Then I was taken to a bathroom with five detainees where the same process was repeated for nine days. We have been prevented from observing our prayer or brushing our teeth.'
Dr. Farouk concluded: 'regarding the contents of my courses at the University, I would like to draw to your attention that the only body which is legally authorized to make such comments is the University Senate.'
Source: Human Rights Watch/Africa Watch, 'Sudan Suppression of Information', 8/30/90 Vol. 2, Iss. 28 Pg.23-24