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Friday, December 6, 2024
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EU envoy slams Zakir Naik for ‘baseless, ridiculous’comments

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By Alagie Manneh

The European Union ambassador has refuted claims by renowned Muslim televangelist Dr Zakir Naik that the West orchestrated the ouster of President Jammeh because of his strong anti-gay and pro-Islam stance.

Ambassador Attila Lajos whose office came under coruscating attack recently for prodding The Gambia to accept homosexuality, said: “I don’t know this Dr Zakir very well but I respect his views. However, [his statement] is baseless allegation. It is ridiculous. If that is the case that [the EU pressures poor Muslim countries] the EU will not be supporting The Gambia from the beginning. It is illogical to think that the EU attaches a precondition to its support programs for The Gambia to accept homosexuality. It is baseless.”

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Asked whether the EU will reiterate its call for the protection of gay rights in The Gambia, Mr Lajos tersely said: “Frankly, I don’t see the point now [of you bringing up this issue again]. You should ask those people on social media who peddle it. I consider this issue closed.”

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