He specifically cautioned against framing political support around ethnicity or tribe, warning that it fuels division.
He emphasised national unity and responsible speech as essential for peace, saying harmony between groups remains one of The Gambia’s strengths.
The Gambia is in a politically active season. A broad opposition coalition just held its third strategic session to build a united front for the upcoming elections, and concerns about tribal/religious rhetoric have already surfaced. Civil society and religious leaders have flagged that such remarks, even when condemned, are starting to appear and could normalise division if left unchecked.
Sheikh Fakebba’s message echoes a wider sentiment: The Gambia has a history of peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians, and institutions like the Supreme Islamic Council and Christian Council have long worked to maintain it. Independent groups using religious or tribal banners risk undermining that harmony.
