The Gambia Supreme Islamic Council has warned against divisive preaching and religious intolerance. 

The council in a statement called on imams and religious scholars to desist from divisive preaching and rhetoric.  

The statement was issued following the war of words between two prominent Islamic preachers Imam Baa Kawsu and Sheikh Musa Boto Saidy. 

The feuding clerics and their supporters have threatened violence in their sermons. 

“The council condemns all forms of racism, tribalism and tribal bigotry based on caloric culture and language and calls strongly for unity, tolerance for the maintenance of security, peace and stability in The Gambia which are fundamental prerequisites for any positive national progress and constructive developments,” the council statement added. 

Meanwhile President Adama Barrow has called on the country’s imams to preach peace and unity ahead of the December presidential election.

The president told the a large gathering of imams at the State House on Wednesday that his government won’t tolerate violence and extremism in The Gambia. 

“As influential figures in society, I called on you to utilise your status to preach peace and unity amongst the people,” the president said.