Editorial,

Throughout human history, religion has been a fundamental instrument in the promotion of unity, harmony, and strength in society. The collective norms that bind people together make them share a common sense of purpose and direction.

This is why any nation, in the struggle to attain meaningful socio-economic transformation, takes into consideration the cosmology and belief system of its people. The rationale is that there is no society without culture and it is the people’s culture that forms the basis of development. Religion being a key component of culture is therefore not excluded.

In The Gambia, the country is marked by a complex variety of religious denominations. Despite these different denominations, we co-exist in unison and harmony, with the highest sense of fraternity. In fact, this is what all religions, regardless of their origin, preach.

President Jammeh has always been a central figure in the promotion of such religions unity. He endeavours to ensure that, an atmosphere that provides for an equal playing field for all religions is engendered in the country. Constantly, the president contributes to the advancement of these religions and in the process of doing so, all the denominations are treated with equality. A recent example of such contributions, is the donation to the people of Pirang for the construction of a mosque. Such a laudable donation will not only benefit the people of Pirang but will also go a long way in strengthening the Muslim Ummah in the country.

The fundamental issue, however, is that the people concerned should make sure that the money is spent on the construction of the mosque. Principal elements of Islam are truth, honesty, and loyalty. The money should not be diverted to other uses particularly individual businesses. The people in charge have to understand that the entire country is keeping an eye on them. If the funds are utilised as planned, the image of the Muslims in protecting the integrity of our religions will be boosted. This will further motivate the president to make many more contributions to the Ummah.

The Gambia’s upholding of religions as a state agenda explains our progress, peace and prosperity. We should therefore continue to be actors in strengthening the unity of the country.