Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Ministry of Lands, Regional Government, and Religious Affairs has condemned what it described as “inappropriate and unacceptable remarks” made by one of its Imams during a recent Friday sermon, extending an apology to the Murid community in The Gambia and abroad.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the ministry said the comments had caused pain and misunderstanding within both the Mourid and broader Muslim community. It confirmed that the Imam at the center of the controversy had admitted his mistake, repented, and publicly apologized.

“Such remarks are entirely unacceptable and must not be tolerated within our ranks,” the statement read.

“The Mourid community is an integral pillar of the Muslim Ummah. Their invaluable contributions to religion, education, spirituality, and social development are not only recognized but celebrated on a global scale.”

The ministry stressed that Islamic leaders bear the responsibility to handle sensitive topics with respect, citing the Qur’anic injunction for Prophet Musa (peace be upon him) to engage with gentleness as an example of how discourse should be conducted.

It further issued a stern warning to scholars and preachers in The Gambia and beyond, making clear that any actions threatening peace, harmony, and respect among Muslim communities would not be tolerated.

“Future transgressions will not only lead to serious consequences but will also be met with immediate disciplinary action,” the statement cautioned.

The ministry urged believers to accept the Imam’s apology “in a spirit of forgiveness” while working together to nurture unity and uphold Islamic values.

“May Allah guide us in our endeavors and help us remain united as one Ummah,” the release concluded.