Garissa Assembly Seeks Clarity on Mass Wedding Initiative

Garissa County Assembly members are seeking answers regarding a recent mass wedding initiative that has sparked public interest and raised questions about budgeting, cultural sensitivity, and follow-up procedures.

The concerns were voiced during a session on Tuesday where Member of the County Assembly (MCA) Khadija Hassan posed critical inquiries to the executive branch of the government.

MCA Khadija Hassan, representing the Committee on Gender, Culture, and Sports, raised several pertinent questions during the assembly session.

She sought clarity on whether the mass wedding initiative had been allocated funds in the current county budget and, if so, the allocated amount.

Additionally, she queried the criteria employed to select beneficiaries for the weddings and emphasized the importance of ensuring cultural sensitivity and inclusivity across all communities in Garissa.

The assembly further highlighted the need for a detailed report outlining the number of weddings conducted under the initiative and requested information on any post-wedding follow-up measures undertaken by the government to assess the well-being and stability of the newlywed couples.

Garissa County Assembly Speaker ruled that the executive will provide a comprehensive statement addressing these questions on Tuesday, May 7th, 2024, at 2:30 p.m.

Garissa Governor Nathif Jama had generously funded a mass wedding for 43 Muslim couples from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in a heartwarming gesture of community support and religious commitment to county residents.

The mass wedding, the first of its kind, symbolized Islamic legal union; representing hope, solidarity, and the enduring values of compassion and generosity.

Islam places great significance on marriage, considering it a sacred and fundamental institution. Marriage in Islam is not merely a legal contract but a spiritual covenant, guided by the principles outlined in the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

The Quran describes marriage as a source of tranquility and companionship. “And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed, in that are signs for a people who give thought” (Quran 30:21).

Islam encourages individuals to seek companionship and support within the bounds of marriage.

Islamic marriage involves certain rites and conditions. A marriage contract, known as the “Nikah,” is a legal and binding agreement between the bride and groom.

This contract includes terms such as the dowry (mahr), which is a financial gift from the groom to the bride, and other conditions agreed upon by both parties.

The family plays a crucial role in the process, providing guidance and support.

The involvement of families is not only encouraged but often seen as a means of fostering harmony and understanding between different households.

Islam promotes mutual respect, love, and cooperation between spouses.

The Quran advises, “They are clothing for you, and you are clothing for them” (Quran 2:187). This metaphor underscores the idea of protection, intimacy, and the seamless blending of lives within the marital relationship.

Divorce is recognized in Islam as a last resort but permissible in certain circumstances. The process, known as “Talaq,” is regulated by Islamic jurisprudence, ensuring fairness and justice.

In essence, Islam views marriage as a cornerstone of society, providing a framework for emotional, spiritual, and physical fulfillment. It encourages a partnership built on love, mutual respect, and shared commitment to faith, fostering a stable and supportive environment for individuals and families to thrive.