Alaji Modou Senghore, vice chairman of Banjul Muslim Elders Committee, stated: “The Banjul Mortuary is almost full, and the city is known for its land inadequacy. We are pleading with the government through the Ministry of Lands to assist us with solutions to this menace.”
“Banjul and Kanifing are the only main referral hospitals in the country, most times we have too many dead bodies that we have to keep in the freezer, and sometimes the freezer can’t handle it due to the heavy weight. We therefore call on the government to see how best they can expand the mortuary.”
Further dwelling on the issues affecting the country, Senghore acknowledged government efforts in tackling food and petrol price hikes. He however, urged them to redouble their efforts in ensuring food is available at reasonable prices for the average Gambian.
He also encouraged councils to continue keeping the Banjul environment clean and discourage Banjulians from illegally parking unused vehicles in the streets.
He urged people to pray for peace, while hailing The Gambia for the just concluded peaceful by election in Masembeh Ward.
He said that it’s an indication that democracy in the country is getting stronger, adding that there are upcoming elections that people need to accept the outcome.
The president of the Republic, H.E. Adama Barrow, expressed delight in receiving the elders from Banjul.
He urged his guests and all Gambians to maintain the peace in the country, emphasising the obligation of all citizens to live and work hard for the country.
“The development of a country solely depends on peace and stability and this should begin in our households by instilling good morals in our children to ensure good behaviours when they are within the communities.”
“We have an open door policy to all Muslims leaders to bring in their issues and put it up for discussion. We should do away with sermons of hate and constructively learn how to relay your issues to the right authorities,” he stressed.
The President used the opportunity to highlight some of his government’s current and future programmes aimed at improving the lives of all Gambians. He also urged the elders to preserve unity and all Gambians to join him in pursuing his development goals.
Bai Saini Seyni, Bilal of Banjul, reiterated the president’s remarks to maintain peace within the country.
This meeting was also attended by the H.E the Vice President Muhammed B. Jallow, cabinet ministers, Supreme Islamic Council among others stakeholders and leaders of the country.
