Africa-Press – Gambia. The Ministry of Lands, Regional Government, and Religious Affairs has issued a formal apology to the Murid community in The Gambia and abroad, following what it described as “inappropriate and unacceptable” remarks made by an imam during a recent Friday sermon.
In a press statement, the ministry expressed regret over the incident, acknowledging the pain and misunderstanding caused within the Murid brotherhood and the wider Muslim community.
“The Ministry of Lands, Regional Government, and Religious Affairs formally condemns the inappropriate and unacceptable remarks made by one of our imams during a recent Friday sermon, and we extend a heartfelt apology to the Murid community, both within The Gambia and around the world,” the statement read.
According to the ministry, the imam involved has admitted his mistake, repented, and issued a personal apology. Nonetheless, the ministry emphasized that such conduct is intolerable within its ranks.
“The imam involved has admitted his mistake, repented for his actions, and issued a sincere apology. However, it is imperative to note that such remarks are entirely unacceptable and must not be tolerated within our ranks.
The statement further highlighted the Murid community’s invaluable contributions to Islam, particularly in the fields of religion, education, spirituality, and social development—contributions that, it said, are recognized and celebrated globally.
Reiterating Islam’s core values of unity, wisdom, and respect, the ministry cautioned religious leaders to approach sensitive matters with care, citing the Qur’anic example of Prophet Musa (peace be upon him) being commanded to engage with gentleness.
“Their invaluable contributions to the religion, education, spirituality, and social development are not only recognized but celebrated on a global scale. Our faith is built on principles of unity, wisdom, and profound respect, and we must remain steadfast in upholding these values,” the ministry stressed.
The ministry also warned that it would not tolerate actions that threaten peace, harmony, and respect among Muslim communities locally or internationally, pledging strict disciplinary action against future transgressions.
“We are committed to enforcing strict measures against any individuals who engage in behaviors that undermine the unity of our Ummah. Allow this incident to serve as an unequivocal warning: future transgressions will not only lead to serious consequences but will also be met with immediate disciplinary action,” the ministry said in the statement.
Finally, it called on believers to accept the apology in a spirit of forgiveness and to work collectively to strengthen unity within the Ummah.
“Let us all strive to conduct ourselves in a manner that pleases Allah and strengthens the bonds of our sacred community. May Allah guide us in our endeavors and help us remain united as one Ummah,” the statement concludes.
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