By Olimatou Coker
The Gambia Supreme Islamic Council (GSIC) yesterday re-elected Sheikh Essa Foday Darboe as the president for a second term, with Sheikh Amadou Sabally elected as the council’s new second vice president.
Speaking after his re-election, Sheikh Darboe expressed gratitude to the electorate for what he described as a demonstration of “100 per cent trust” in his leadership.
He pledged to build on the work accomplished during his first term and continue working to meet the expectations of the Gambian people.
“I can’t end my statement without thanking our partners, like Muhammed Jah, Hamidou Jah, Abubacarr Jawara and Sheriffo Touray of Yonna Group, for always standing by the council,” he said.
Reflecting on his achievements over the past five years, Sheikh Darboe identified unity within the council and increased public confidence as some of his administration’s major accomplishments.
“One of our biggest successes in the last five years has been the oneness we have achieved and the trust people have placed in the council. We built that public trust for the council and many other things,” he said.
The GSIC president called for peace and unity ahead of the December 5th election.
“With The Gambia heading into another election year, I will use this occasion to call on Gambians to put national interest above political, tribal and other differences,” he urged.
He urged the public to reject hate speech and tribalism, reminding citizens that the country belongs to everyone.
Sheikh Darboe also called on imams and Islamic scholars across the country to use their platforms to promote peace, unity and tolerance.
“I am also calling on the imams and others to always preach oneness and peace because that is what the religion says,” he urged.
He said the council will continue to play its part in promoting peace, unity and Islamic values while working to strengthen public confidence in the institution.
The sixth national congress brought together Islamic scholars, regional delegates, and international representatives. The two-day gathering determined the council’s leadership and helped shape its direction for the next five years.