President Adama Barrow recently met with Islamic leaders at State House, emphasizing the crucial role they play in promoting peace and national unity in Gambia. The meeting, the first of its kind since 1981, brought together members of the Gambia Supreme Islamic Council, regional imams, and other prominent religious figures. President Barrow commended the leaders for demonstrating unity and a shared commitment to the nation's welfare.
The President highlighted the importance of peace and stability as the foundation of national development, stressing that religious leaders have a unique responsibility to guide their communities towards tolerance, understanding, and mutual respect. He reaffirmed his government's commitment to preserving peace and stability, emphasizing the need for collaboration between government and religious leaders to maintain national unity.
President Barrow urged Islamic scholars and clerics to continue preaching messages of peace, reconciliation, and coexistence, particularly as political activities gain momentum across the country. He emphasized that religious leaders have a vital responsibility in safeguarding the nation's peace and unity, and that their guidance and counsel continue to inspire communities and strengthen the values that bind Gambians together.
Several imams and religious representatives echoed the President's sentiments, underscoring the moral and spiritual obligation of religious leaders to help prevent division and promote peaceful coexistence among Gambians. Sheikh Essa Darboe, President of the Gambia Supreme Islamic Council, highlighted the need for continued unity within the Muslim community and reaffirmed the commitment of religious leaders to supporting peace and stability.
Hamat Bah, Minister of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs, urged imams and religious leaders to continue praying for peace, unity, and tranquillity in Gambia. He assured the gathering of the government's readiness to strengthen collaboration with religious leaders in promoting harmony and peaceful coexistence across the country.
The meeting was attended by representatives of various Islamic organizations, including the Gambia Supreme Islamic Council, RAWDA, and Ahmadiyya Jama'at. Participants collectively renewed their commitment to preserving peace, strengthening unity, and promoting religious harmony throughout Gambia. The gathering concluded with prayers for continued peace, stability, and prosperity.
The meeting was chaired by Imam Basiru Drammeh of Latrikunda, while Alhajie Bai Secka, Bilal of Banjul, delivered the vote of thanks. The President's call to action emphasizes the critical role that religious leaders play in maintaining peace and stability in Gambia, and the need for continued collaboration between government and religious leaders to promote national unity and development.
Key points
- President Adama Barrow emphasizes the crucial role of religious leaders in promoting peace and national unity in Gambia.
- The meeting between President Barrow and Islamic leaders aimed to strengthen unity and explore ways of promoting peace and national cohesion.
- Religious leaders have a vital responsibility in safeguarding Gambia's peace and unity, and their guidance and counsel continue to inspire communities.
