To Resolve Caste Issue In Their Communities
By: Kebba AF Touray
The Soninkara Foundation (SF) has appealed to the Supreme Islamic Council (SIC), to intervene and provide a holistic end to the caste crisis which has started to manifest its ugly head again, in Sarahule speaking communities.
The foundation made the appeal on Sunday, 16 January, 2022, during a visit to the SIC, wherein the latter was applauded for the role they played in resolving previous crises, when they broke out.
Modibo Taal, president of the ‘Sonikara’ foundation, told members of the SIC that their visit was to first congratulate them for the giant steps they have made in resolving the caste crisis when it was at its peak.
“The ‘Sonikara’ foundation is premised on the objective of fostering unity among members o the Sharahule communities, and aims to protect the culture and religion of these communities to ensure that the two groups of so-called ‘free born’ and ‘slave’ classes, live in peace and harmony”, Taal told members of the SIC.
He reminded them that the previous violence has resulted in some sustaining serious injuries and deaths.
“Organizations have made their respective efforts to resolve the crisis, but their endeavors proved futile. But when the Supreme Islamic Council went to the affected communities and dialogued with them, their efforts bore fruits,” Taal said.
This, he attributed to the expertise utilized by the Council as premised on their knowledge in Islam.
“We have also come to show our gratitude and appreciation to your unique efforts, as well as the remarkable success you have registered in your crusade to address the problems of caste in the affected communities,” he said; adding despite their success, there still remain gaps which requires more effort and intervention of the Council, to avert the situation from reigniting.
On their part, members of the SIC, expressed appreciation for the visit of members of the Soninkara foundation, stating that their vsit aims to cement peace and stability in the affected Saarahule communities and the nation at large.
While congratulating the Soninkara foundation for their foresight, members of the SIC responded that at least 95 percent of the Gambian population are Muslims, and as such, the dictates of the religion of Islam are key in ensuring that issues of the caste system are addressed nationwide.
“We will be having a meeting next Sunday and we will deliberate on their request, and any outcome will be communicated to you. The Supreme Islamic Council aims to unify Gambian muslims under one umbrella, and our aim is to help resolve problems and difficulties affecting the country at all times,” SIC members told the visiting Soninkara foundation delegation.
