As
the war of words for leadership position at The Gambia Supreme Islamic Council
(SIC), the country’s main highest Muslim decision-making movement continues,
there is need for dialogue to reach a breakthrough.This rather unfortunate war
of words is only tearing the country’s mainly Muslims majority apart. We are a
country of decent people. We have exercised maturity even through the heights
of many believes was a herculean task. Let’s exercise the same maturity.
We
don’t want to go into all those details between the two parties. But this
recent war of words started after what in legal term- the end of term of the
current president of SIC in the person of Muhammed Lamin Touray. And he is
still occupying the post with no dates for the congress.
Few
weeks ago, Rawdatul Majlis, another Islamic movement established in 2017
unanimously selected Sheriff Sanusi Nano Hydara as the president of the Supreme
Islamic Council. This move was rejected by leadership of the SIC, as they
believed selection of a leader of the council must be in conformity with the
laws of SIC and any act that contravenes the laws of the organisation is
regarded null and void.
They
also questioned the credibility of the Rawdatul Majlis as the movement is not a
registered member of the SIC and so only registered Islamic Organisations have
a say in the selection or election of any leader of the organisation.
However,
Rawdatil Majaalis on the other hand observed that Supreme Islamic Council is
being used as a domestic piece of property confined to just a few set of
people. The movement remains adamant that the selection and appointment of
Alhaji Sheriff Muhammad Sanusi Nano Hydara, the Caliph of Brufut and vice
president of Rawdatil Majaalis to lead as the President of the Gambia Supreme
Islamic Council remain intact “and it is a turning point in the history of
Islamic organisations’ activities in the country.
Islam
is a religion of peace, truth and tolerance. This constant loggerhead among the
leaders of the same Muslim faith should be amicably resolved. Let’s abide by
these fundamental principles and solve our common differences. We must also
preach unity, tolerance, honesty and togetherness. The two groups boost of
members who are well respected and followed-in and out of the country. We must
remember that Islam calls for nothing but peace and harmony.
The
constant differences among the venerable leaders and Muslims in the country
need to be critically looked at so as find a lasting solution.
Let’s give dialogue chance for reconciliation and build a greater nation based on trust and mutual respect!
“Leadership
crisis erupt when people who have not learnt how to obey instructions are given
the privilege to give commands. Leaders are experienced servants.”
Israelmore
Ayivor
