By Buba Gagigo
The Ministry of Lands, Regional Administration, and Religious Affairs has confirmed meeting both the Supreme Islamic Council and Christian Council to find a lasting solution to the current veil issue.
“Amid raging debate over the issue of veil wearing in some schools, The Gambia
Government through the Ministry of Lands, Regional Administration, and Religious Affairs, today convened a fruitful meeting with members of The Gambia Supreme Islamic Council and The Gambia Christian Council.
Chaired by Religious Affairs Minister, Hon Sheriff Abba Sanyang, the meeting aimed at finding a lasting solution to the current veil issue, which potentially threatens to undermine the very fabric of our society known for its culture of religious harmony, interfaith tolerance, and peaceful coexistence,” the ministry announced.
“In this spirit, the two Councils advised and resolved that to amicably settle the
current veil issue, both parties approach the matter through:
1. Deescalating from the respective tense faith positions
2. Religious and opinion leaders to show restraint and avoid rhetoric and any
unhelpful language that could negatively galvanize followers and impact the
peace, security, and harmonious co-existence between members of the Muslim and Christian faiths.
3. That the two Councils, immediately and urgently initiate dialogue between
Christians and Muslims to find a durable solution.
4. To further deescalate the matter, the Minister of Lands and Religious Affairs,” they said.
The ministry said the meeting was attended by a cross-section of Cabinet Ministers and senior civil servants. The meeting echoed The Gambia’s well-known and cherished interfaith spirit and encouraged everyone to help in fostering and consolidating an environment of peace, harmony, and dialogue especially, on the veil issue.