“The Gambia is 95% Muslims but The Gambia is not a Sharia country. Therefore the Islamic scholars should be mindful of what they preach regarding the laws of the country,” he said.
In a marathon speech addressing some sector developments, Barrow said the road-clearing operation is not an easy effort, while citing difficulties from people who use their platforms to undermine the work. He also promised that his government’s next target is to make the country clean.
In achieving such an undertaking, the president urged people to clean their surroundings, as that would make the country. He also hinted his government’s priority at infrastructure while calling on people to pay their taxes for the development of the country.
President Barrow applauded the Muslim elders for the great initiative and their stance in the promotion of peace and stability in the country.
“It is clear that development cannot take place without peace, thus we need to come together because the development my government is undertaking is for the country. If everyone is delivering in their offices as expected, then the country will move forward.”
Hamat Bah, the minister for Lands Local Government and Religious Affairs, extolled President Barrow’s efforts in upholding the Islamic teachings while reiterating that Barrow is a good believer who is mindful about making faults.
Minister Bah, in a long statement, hinted that a Journalist was offered five million dalasis to write bad about The Gambia. He said because of his love for the country, the journalist refused and wrote the opposite.
“We have some wicked people among us who don't want the progress of others. Some have been sharing their thoughts on the government to the extent of mentioning names which is uncalled for. To make something clear, anybody who uses his/her pen to insult the government, we will not relent to counter any statement.”
On the issue of the rise in begging raised by Muslim elders, and asking government to take bold steps in eradicating it, Minister Bah responded byurging the ministry in collaboration with the municipal councils to create a Beggars’ Centre. He argued that the hardship forced some into begging.
“I urge the Islamic scholars to preach peace and love and stop describing some as people of hellfire. It's only the creator who knows and has the power to decide on what he does without the notice of humans.”
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