Such comments are dangerous, unfounded, and unbecoming of a religious leader. Tribal comments are fuel to division, hatred, and a threat to our national fabric.
We are deeply disturbed to see that with all the challenges Gambia is facing, leaders whose voices could make a difference choose to fan the flames of ethnic division instead.
Talib Ahmed Bensouda is a Gambian, born and raised in The Gambia, from parents who were also born and raised in The Gambia. He has twice been elected as the country's second-highest official and continues to fly the Gambian flag high through his leadership, recognized locally, regionally, and internationally. His grandfather is Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, The Gambia's first President. These are the facts that some choose to ignore because it suits their divisive agenda.
To brand such a man a "foreigner" is a deliberate falsehood. If his surname or family ties make him less Gambian, then a significant portion of Gambian families would fail the same test. This is a reckless standard that threatens national unity.
Bigotry does not become acceptable because the target is a political opponent.
We reaffirm our leader's pledge to make tribalism a prosecutable criminal offense upon election to the presidency.
Words that divide and fuel hatred must carry consequences.
Imam Darou Sanyang is urged to withdraw his statements. Challenge Talib Bensouda on policy and vision, never on ancestry or citizenship.
Our diversity is our strength. We are one nation and by the will of God, we will remain one nation and one people.
