Gambian President transformed his country into 'Islamic Republic' at my request, reveals Dr Zakir

The globally celebrated personality Dr Zakir Naik recently shared a heartwarming story about his influence on the former Gambia President Yahya Abdul-Aziz Jemus Junkung Jammeh.

According to the cleric, he advised Dr Jammeh to make Gambia an Islamic state and implement Islamic laws, which led to the country's name being changed from the Republic of The Gambia to the Islamic Republic of The Gambia.

Dr Naik's remarks came in response to a Hindu doctor's appeal for the implementation of Sharia law in Pakistan.

The religious scholar said that the South Asian country is the only state founded in the name of Islam, with its name, "Pakistan," meaning "pure place." 

He noted that while the Quran is theoretically the constitution of Pakistan, the reality is different.

Dr Naik recounted his experience with Dr Jammeh, who invited him to Gambia in 2014 and issued him a diplomatic passport within 24 hours. 

Dr Jammeh also appointed the eminent preacher as his religious adviser. 

During their meeting, Dr Naik advised him to make Gambia an Islamic state and enforce Islamic laws. 

The ex-Gambian President promised to do so and, 11 months later, wrote to Dr. Naik announcing that The Gambia had been renamed the Islamic Republic of The Gambia.

The prominent scholar also shared Dr Jammeh's response to the European Union's offer of $30 million to decriminalise homosexuality in Gambia's constitution. 

Dr Jammeh reportedly told the EU that even if they offered $30 billion, he would not comply.

Dr Naik is currently in Pakistan for a month-long visit, which began on September 30.

Upon his arrival at Islamabad airport, he was warmly welcomed by Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP) Chairman Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Additional Secretary Ministry of Religious Affairs Syed Dr Attaur Rehman, Parliamentary Secretary Religious Affairs Shamsheer Ali Mazari, and other dignitaries.

A day earlier, the globally celebrated personality included his public lectures in the metropolis.

Mr Naik will hold private meetings from October 7 to 10 in the port city.

He will then travel to Lahore and deliver lectures on October 12 and 13, and later in Islamabad on October 19 and 20.

These events will be broadcast live on Peace TV, allowing a broader audience to benefit from Dr. Naik's expertise in comparative religion.