The Amir of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at, Baba F Trawally, has urged Gambians to maintain peace as the country heads to the presidential polls next month.
“By the grace of Allah Almighty, as the presidential election draws nearer, I wish to take this opportunity to appeal to all Gambians to continue to be peaceful and law abiding. Elections come and go but the country shall remain. And while we can all agree and or disagree, we can do so in peace. Consequently, all candidates, party militants, fan clubs, supporters and all other stakeholders should continue to conduct themselves in a manner that is conducive to peace and tranquility.
We have a collective responsibility to establish a generous and compassionate atmosphere in society throughout, especially during times of elections. Each person whether politician or not has a responsibility to live in accordance with the traditions and laws of our dear motherland, The Gambia. And we must do so with absolute tolerance and respect for each other. As good Muslims, the Holy Qur’an explains that no matter what the circumstance, we are not to abandon tolerance. Even if you are wronged, you are not to act other than with justice and that you should not take revenge by being unjust and cruel to your fellow human beings. If anyone does that, then you have flouted a fundamental teaching of the Holy Qur’an. The Holy Qur’an states in Chapter five, verse nine: …and let not a people’s enmity incite you to act otherwise than with justice. Be always just, that is nearer to righteousness,” Amir Trawally said.
The Amir also enjoined voters to exercise their sovereign rights on December 4 “…and to do so with responsibility and good intent. Always remember that Islam advocates that we do not respond to cruelty with cruelty because to do that would make us just as cruel. Instead, if you can forgive, then forgive, that is better. However, if you must respond, then the recompense of a wrong is no more than the wrong inflicted on you. God Almighty does not like those who commit excesses.”
Amir Trawally called on all and sundry to be respectful and not take law into their own hands.
“So as we head to the polls, remember to be law abiding and conduct yourselves in a manner that will preserve the peace and stability of our dear motherland, The Gambia.
May Allah Almighty make the Presidential Election a source of peace, security, harmony and unity for the Gambia and be for the interest and betterment for the Gambian and non-Gambian and may He continue to protect and bless our beloved and dear mother land, The Gambia. Ameen,” he concluded.
