Unimpeachable sources have disclosed to the Daily Observer that Alhaji Ba-Kawsu Fofana and Imam Muhammed Lamin Touray have shown their desire to contest for the fourthcoming Supreme Islamic Council (SIC) presidential election slated for August 17, 2008.

When contacted for comment, Ba-Kawsu Fofana, in an interview with the Daily Observer, said his candidature for the presidency of the country’s supreme Islamic body was prompted by the Muslims elders of the country who have asked him to contest for the presidency.    

“They have assured me of their support to be at the helm of affairs of the country’s supreme Islamic body in complementing the Gambian leader’s efforts in giving a new look to the day-to-day administration and as well boost the moral of SIC. I recently returned from a nationwide tour and I was impressed with the rousing welcome I received with my delegation,” he said.

Asked what would be his priority if elected president, Alhaji Ba-Kawsu Fofana said “to strengthen the coordial relation between the government and the SIC. I will also go all out to uphold and defend the principles of the Muslim Ummah come rain or shine. Also , I will at all cost cherish a wonderful relationship between Muslims and Christians in The Gambia”.

Ba-Kawsu added that President Alhaji Dr Yahya Jammeh is supportive of the Muslim Ummah and this according to Ba-Kawsu earned the Gambian leader the title Amir Almuminina. “Free education for Islamic scholars from primary to secondary level and a university for Islamic scholars will be the order of the day if I am elected president. From the reaction of the people during my tour, I am already an elected president,” he declared. Alhaji Sedia Minteh, who was also part of the tour with Ba- Kawsu urged eligible voters to vote for Alhaji Ba-Kawsu Fofana.

Frantic efforts to speak to Imam Muhammed Lamin Touray proved futile but our sources revealed that Imam Touray’s nomination came following the incumbent president, Alhaji Banding Drammeh’s decision to voluntarily resign after serving the council for many years.

Oustass Muhammed Sarr, secretary general of the Supreme Islamic Council confirmed the story, reiterating that Alhagie Banding Drammeh has voluntarily shown no interest in the position.

According to him, the much awaited congress of the council will be attended by delegates from all the regions of the country.