On Thursday, Rawdatul Majaalis held its long-awaited congress in Jarra Soma, where incumbent Sheriff Nano Hydara, also known as Pa Hydara, was re-elected as president of the association.
The election, in line with tradition, was carried out through a show of hands by delegates from across the country. In his acceptance speech, Sheriff Nano Hydara expressed his gratitude to Rawda members for their continued trust and confidence.
He affirmed his commitment to preserving the form of Islam passed down by previous generations, pledging to protect it from external influences. Hydara emphasized, “We are dedicated to safeguarding the tradition left by our fathers and forefathers, especially against any attempts by Wahhabi movements, which are now fading away.”
He also reiterated that there is only one legitimate Rawda association in the country, warning any individuals or groups using the name without authorization to cease their actions. This remark was directed at a faction led by Bamin Jaiteh, which had declared its own leadership but did not attend the Soma congress.
Imam Foday Mahmud Touray, the secretary of the splinter group, questioned why the Inspector General of Police allowed the congress to proceed when internal differences had not been resolved.
