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The Forum of Islamic Organisations for Peaceful Coexistence in Sierra Leone, bringing together the Sunni, Shia, and Ahmadiyya Islamic sects, has strongly condemned a recent statement by a preacher claiming that any Muslim who celebrates Christmas will be sent to Hell.
In a unified position, the Forum made it clear that such remarks do not represent the beliefs, teachings, or values of Islam as practiced by Muslims in Sierra Leone. The Forum emphasized that Islam does not give individuals the authority to judge others or determine their fate in the Hereafter.
“Allah alone is the ultimate Judge,” the Forum stated, stressing that Islam was not revealed as a tool for condemnation, hatred, or division among believers or toward people of other faiths. Declaring fellow Muslims destined for Hell based on personal opinions is contrary to Islamic teachings and promotes unnecessary hostility.
The Forum reaffirmed that Islam is a religion rooted in peace, compassion, tolerance, and coexistence. Sierra Leone, they noted, has long stood as a shining example of religious harmony, where Muslims and Christians coexist peacefully, celebrate together, and support one another regardless of religious differences. Any statement that seeks to undermine this harmony threatens both national unity and shared moral values.
To support this position, the Forum referenced the Qur’an, citing Surah Al-Baqarah (2:62): “Indeed, the believers, Jews, Christians, and Sabians whoever truly believes in Allah and the Last Day and does good will have their reward with their Lord. And there will be no fear for them, nor will they grieve.”
The Forum therefore called on the public to disregard the controversial statement, emphasizing that it does not reflect Islam or the collective stance of the Muslim community in Sierra Leone.
In conclusion, the Forum of Islamic Organisations for Peaceful Coexistence reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to promoting mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and interfaith harmony, urging all Sierra Leoneans to continue upholding the values of unity and peace that define the nation.
