Gambian President Jammeh Assumes Islamic Title 'Sheikh': Scholars Courtesy?

26 May 2009

The Daily Observer -- Earlier in the evening of last Friday, President Jammeh was conferred with the Islamic title of 'Sheikh', meaning an Islamic head, during a meeting at the Serekunda West Park, by The Gambia Supreme Islamic Council in collaboration with the Kanifing Municipal Council.

This title, which adds up to his previous ones, comes out of recognition for his immense support and contribution towards the promotion of the Islamic Religion. At this meeting, the president reiterated his call for concerted effort in the national development crusade, as he addressed thousands of Gambians. Urging hard work and unreserved commitment towards the country's socio-economic advancement, the Gambian leader, called on Gambians to take up their responsibilities more effectively in the interest of the development of the nation.

He implored on Gambians to nurture unity and love among themselves. "For The Gambia to go forward and develop more than it is," the president said, "we must unite and have the belief that it is only Allah the Almighty who can give us the help we need; it is Him alone who can also deny us help." He noted that he will never subdue himself to Western influence, nor will he put his hope on that part of the world for the fulfillment of his development target.

The Gambian leader further told the people of the Kanifing municipality that they must not pin all their hope on the central government as it cannot do everything for the people. The central government, he stressed, can only pave the way for development. President Jammeh also announced at the gathering his government's uncompromising stance in dealing with anyone or any organisation that tries to import religious practices into the country which are different from the ones being practiced by the people. The organisation of 'Ziarehs' in anticipation of enriching oneself, he stressed, totally contradicts the principles and teachings of the religion of Islam. The president also made reference to 'Ziarehs' that are organised in the name of Sheikh Omar Futiyou at the Gunjur river side as example of such unacceptable practices.

He tasked the Supreme Islamic Council to take immediate action against such people who bring religious confusions in the country among worshippers, warning the national broadcaster (GRTS) and other radio stations in the country against hosting programmes which offer opportunities for such people to highlight issues of this nature. Secretary of state Yankuba Touray called on the people of the area to be steadfast in the development processes of the country. He called on the people of the area to stop erecting their buildings at the road side, saying whenever government needs to embark on development projects such as road construction, such buildings are bound to be demolished.

Secretary of state Touray then implored on the young people to be more hard working and also to make the maximum use of the facilities available for them. At the same gathering, The Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC) also presented a paper of appreciation to The Gambian leader, as a demonstration of their recognition of his visionary leadership and the valuable support he has been rendering the sporting fraternity in the country.

EsinIslam.Com