Imam Sheikh Abdoulie Kali Kanteh has praised President Adama Barrow’s record while warning political leaders that self-interest and persistent quarrels could threaten peace and unity in The Gambia.

Speaking shortly after religious leaders met the President at State House, Imam Kanteh said Barrow had “done a lot” for the country and urged Gambians to recognise his achievements.

He drew a comparison with football to explain his position, asking why a team that was winning should be changed.

“If your football team is winning always, why change?” he said.

The imam also directed a message to political leaders, urging them to be sincere and make the country’s peace their central concern rather than pursue personal interests.

“Every one of them, his rule and his intention should be the peace of this country, not self-interest,” he said.

He warned that political confrontation would not produce the positive changes Gambians wanted, but could instead lead to division.

Imam Kanteh said religious leaders had a significant role to play in preventing such tensions, noting that each imam had thousands of followers and could use sermons to encourage peaceful conduct.

“Our rule is to talk to people and maintain peace,” he said.

He also referred to election-related unrest in other African countries, saying The Gambia should avoid a similar situation.
“We don’t like that in this country,” he said.

The imam said religious leaders were continuing to use their pulpits to urge people to preserve peace and harmony, stressing that Gambians should work together for national development.

His remarks followed the State House meeting with President Barrow, where religious leaders highlighted the importance of peaceful engagement as the country moves towards the December presidential election.

By Adama Makasuba