We are once again compelled to talk on this topic of people committing suicide, asking why some people prefer to take their life.
The recent report of a man in his 70s reportedly committing suicide in Busumbala in the West Coast Region is a case in point.
We are of the view that, even if someone is aggrieved, it does not warrant him or her to commit suicide.
People should avoid committing suicide, despite the magnitude of any problem they may have, or the bad experience they may be going through.
It is true that certain situations are serious and difficult, but this should not warrant one to kill himself or herself.
Our argument is that as Muslims and Christians we should always have faith in God.
In the first place, committing suicide is not a solution to solving any problem, and is against the teachings of Islam and Christianity.
It is a big sin to commit suicide; in fact, no religion tolerates such an act.
People should not allow stressful situations or family problems to cause them to take their life because, at the end of the day, whoever kills him/herself stands to lose all that they have lived for on earth, and will also face judgment in the hereafter.
In The Gambia, suicide has become not uncommon; it is therefore high time people started talking about this issue at public forums to discourage it in our society.
We would like to urge young people to always maintain dialogue with their parents to make them know their problems, and amicably find solutions to them.
People have to understand that life is more important than any problem they might have or face; so they have to always protect their life in the interest of their family and humanity.
Imagine, it was reported that, just recently, a man also committed suicide in front of the office of the Senegalese president in
Bocoum, as the man is known for now, was an aggrieved former Senegalese soldier who set himself on fire outside the presidential palace in
We are, however, pleading with people to value our customs and continue to provide guidance to those at grief.
