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Popular Mayoral Aspirant, Mohamed Gento Kamara recently offered prayers at the Kissy Road Mosque in Freetown.
In the said mosque, the Politician made a religious statement that has sparked controversy and received wide condemnation from SLAJ, Civil Society organisations and members of the public.
In the said statement, Gento started by referring to the Krio people as their brothers and sisters but expressed strong interest that this time around they need the Mayoral position. He added that his quest for the Mayoral position is devoid of political interests. He begs the people as this is the month of Ramadan, and prays for the congregation present to the highest of heaven.
He further revealed that despite his philanthropism over the years, he never thought he would come into politics to aspire for the Mayoral position.
He justified his aspirations as a result of what he described as advantage. He further emphasized that they as Muslims love the Christians and his running mate will be a Christian.
However, he pointed out that many Muslim brothers and sisters are leaving mosques to go to churches because they believe they will secure jobs. He added that as Muslims they respect the Christians in the country but a majority of the unemployed people in the country are Muslims.
He reminded the congregation that Allah will one day ask them “What is the Jihad they have fought for the religion”, he stated.
He noted that Muslims will not be asked about their political parties but how they serve their religion. He pointed out that his philanthropism to the various mosques is a way to find his Aljannah (Heaven)
He further referenced the Holy Quran that Allah Said that anybody that recites the “Khalimah” Muslims should consider him as a brother.
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I personally think that the context in which Gento’s statement is grounded has been completely misconstrued by most of those who are openly criticizing it for some selfish motives.
Gento is referring to one of the major disparities that exist in our society which is inevitably hindering our political, social and economic development. This is a major concern for him as a true and devoted Muslim.
His statement recognizes the intrinsic values of tribal and religious affiliations and unity that exist in our society and stresses the need to pursue this at all costs. He even declared that his running mate will be a Christian and that clearly demonstrates that his intention is not to sow seeds of discord as many have suggested.
I admire his courage for coming out with something which many will not even dare tread on it’s limits. I am not a supporter of Gento nor am I a politically minded person but we need someone like him who delves deep into our social malaise in search for a fresh reconstruction.