At this time, it does not appear that the change to a majority religion will change Gambia’s laws or effect the country’s constitutional status as a secular state. Jammeh’s declaration was not to ally Gambia with the jihadist group known as the Islamic State, it was pointed out.
The announcement was made during a political rally held in Brufut, a coastal village about 15 kilometers (9 miles) west of the capital, Banjul. “In line with the country’s religious identity and values, I proclaim Gambia as an Islamic state,” said Jammeh.
Almost 90 percent of Gambia’s 1.8 million people are Muslim. “Gambia cannot afford to continue the colonial legacy,” Jammeh said. The African nation gained its independence from Britain in 1965. The president also added that the rights of the Christian community would continue to be respected.
While saying there would be no laws on attire in the country, Jammeh added, “We will be an Islamic state that would respect the rights of all citizens and non-citizens.” However, the head of the country’s Islamic body wouldn’t say if the declaration has been accepted.
“We haven’t met yet to discuss over the presidential announcement,” said Gambia’s Supreme Islamic Council Chairman Imam Momodou Lamin Touray, reports Metro News Canada.
There is opposition to the president’s declaration making Gambia an Islamic republic, though. Hamat Bah of the opposition National Reconciliation Party criticized the decision. “There is a constitutional clause that says that Gambia is a secular state. You cannot make such a declaration without going through a referendum,” he said, according to Fox News.
Even though Gambia is a popular tourist destination for Brits, the country has been sharply criticized by the UK and other countries for gross human rights abuses, as well as clamping down on his political opponents.. Jammeh seized power in a coup in 1994.
