Growing Concerns Surround Sports Minister's Request for Mosque Closure Near Office
In recent developments, there is a rising wave of concern within the Muslim community regarding a recent directive from the Ministry of Sports. The ministry has issued a letter instructing Sheik Abdul Karim Kamara and others to vacate a structure used as a mosque within the Ministry of Sports Precincts at the National Stadium.
Dated 11th December 2023, the letter deems the structure an illegal occupation of the Ministry's edifice and poses a security threat. It mentions prior engagements between the Ministry's leadership and the Imam on August 21st and 25th, addressing ongoing rehabilitation projects and security concerns, particularly after office hours.
However, the Muslim community and worshipers, both residing in the area and those attending prayers during football match breaks at the National Stadium, express growing concerns. Journalist and Philanthropist Abdul Rahman Jalloh highlights that the mosque has stood for over 27 years, stating, "As Muslims, we need to stand up so that this Masjid would not be demolished. It has existed for over 27 years now, and then she wants it demolished due to her hatred for the Deen [Religion]."
Jalloh calls on the Muslim community to voice their concerns against the potential demolition, emphasizing the mosque's significant service to the Muslim community in the area over the past 27 years.
SL Islamic Web TV, an online Islamic platform, questions the Minister of Sports on the justification for the demolition. The TV platform points out that even Ministry staff are praying in the mosque, and numerous ministers have come and gone without issue with the mosque's existence.
As the community awaits further details on the court's decision, individuals express their opinions: