Rédaction Africa Links 24 with babucarr balajo
Published on 2024-02-26 09:37:00
Islamic cleric Abdoulie Fatty has recently issued a challenge to Imam Baba Leigh to engage in a public debate on the topic of female genital mutilation (FGM). Fatty, a prominent advocate for the decriminalization of FGM which he refers to as female circumcision, stands in direct opposition to Imam Leigh who supports the anti-FGM movement. The debate comes amidst a proposed bill in parliament that seeks to repeal the law, implemented by former president Yahya Jammeh, that prohibits the practice of FGM in The Gambia.
During a Friday sermon at a mosque in Bundung, Imam Fatty boldly proclaimed that FGM will continue to be practiced in The Gambia regardless of any government measures to suppress it. He specifically addressed Imam Leigh, questioning his authority to denounce female circumcision as a cultural practice rather than an Islamic one. Fatty invoked religious teachings and historical examples to support his argument, challenging Leigh to a public debate on various media platforms.
Imam Fatty emphasized that the tradition of female circumcision has deep roots in Gambian society, citing the acceptance of the practice by influential religious figures such as Sheikh Oumar Futi Taal and leaders of the Tijaniyya caliphate. He defiantly declared that even if the proponents of FGM are imprisoned, they will continue to uphold the tradition. Fatty’s strong stance on the issue has sparked concerns among those advocating for the abolition of FGM.
In response to the impending legislation seeking to decriminalize FGM, Imam Fatty issued threats against National Assembly Members (NAMs) who support the anti-FGM law. He warned that he and his supporters would actively campaign against their re-election and instead support candidates who back the repeal of the law. Fatty underscored the significance of religious beliefs over political affiliations, urging imams to engage more actively in parliamentary affairs to safeguard Islamic traditions.
Imam Fatty criticized a government minister who suggested that imams should refrain from discussing certain topics in their sermons, asserting that religious leaders have a duty to uphold Islamic principles and should not be silenced. He condemned the involvement of politicians in perpetuating violence and unrest in the country, contrasting the peaceful conduct of imams with the disruptive actions of political figures. Fatty’s uncompromising defense of Islamic practices and his call for religious leaders to take a stand against legislative changes demonstrates the fervent commitment of some Gambians to preserving their cultural heritage.
Read the original article on The Standard
