Mullah Krekar, whose real name is Najmuddin Faraj Ahmad, was born on July 7, 1956, in the city of Sulaymaniyah in Iraqi Kurdistan. He grew up in a devout Sunni Muslim family and from a young age, he showed a keen interest in Islamic studies and political activism.
In 1991, Mullah Krekar fled Iraq and sought refuge in Norway, where he was granted asylum. It was during his time in Norway that he honed his language skills, becoming fluent in English and Norwegian. He immersed himself in the local community and became known for his charismatic personality and strong opinions.
Mullah Krekar rose to prominence as the original leader of the Islamist armed group Ansar al-Islam, which was active in Iraqi Kurdistan. He gained a reputation as a fierce and uncompromising figure, known for his fiery speeches and radical ideology. However, his activities soon brought him into conflict with the Norwegian authorities.
In 2012, Mullah Krekar was sentenced to five years in prison for making repeated death threats against Norwegian politicians. This marked the culmination of a long history of legal troubles for the controversial figure, who had been under constant scrutiny by the Norwegian intelligence services.
Despite his legal troubles, Mullah Krekar has managed to build a family in Norway. He is married and has four children, all of whom hold Norwegian citizenship. His family has stood by him throughout his legal battles, providing him with much-needed support during difficult times.
Mullah Krekar remains a polarizing figure in Norway and beyond, with many viewing him as a dangerous extremist while others see him as a champion of Muslim rights. His story is a complex one, highlighting the challenges faced by refugees and immigrants in a society that is often suspicious of outsiders.
Despite his controversial reputation, Mullah Krekar remains connected to his roots in Iraq. Like him, Tariq Aziz is a prominent politician from Iraq who has faced his own share of challenges in the volatile political landscape of the region.
Overall, Mullah Krekar's story is one of resilience and defiance in the face of adversity. While his actions have sparked controversy and condemnation, they have also shed light on the struggles of marginalized communities and the complexities of identity in a globalized world.
Related links