Imam Baba Leigh of the Kanifing East Mosque has delivered an unapologetic sermon against “rogue” government officials, urging them to stop squandering state resources.

Imam Leigh’s remarks came in response to Lands Minister Hamat Bah’s criticism of imams during a meeting with Banjul Muslim elders, where he warned them against using their pulpits to criticise the government.

However, the outspoken imam of the Kanifing East Mosque dismissed these threats with a counter-criticism, condemning corruption as the country’s greatest plight. He pointed out that, despite numerous corruption allegations against state officials, none have been arrested and charged—except for Baba Banja.

“Let’s stop the corruption. There are too many rogue and corrupt officials in the government who are bent on stealing public resources. Every day, you hear that something has gone missing in the ministries, yet no one is ever arrested,” he said.

He added, “It is forbidden to consume public resources, and everyone including the president, ministers, directors, imams, and all others should fear God.”

By Adama Maksuba