The National Chief Imam of Ghana, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, has called on politicians and key stakeholders to prioritize peace in the lead-up to the December 7 general elections.
With the critical democratic exercise fast approaching, the Chief Imam emphasized the importance of maintaining harmony and avoiding any actions that could incite unrest.
In a recent address to a group of Muslim youth in Accra, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu stressed the essential role political leaders play in ensuring a peaceful electoral process. He urged politicians to moderate their language and refrain from making inflammatory statements that could stir division among the populace.
He reminded the public that while the Electoral Commission (EC) is tasked with overseeing the process, political parties, candidates, and their supporters must work together to uphold peace.
Speaking through his spokesperson, Sheikh Armiyawo Shaibu, the Chief Imam highlighted that political leaders, being at the forefront of the campaign season, carry a unique responsibility to maintain a tone of civility and respect. Their words hold significant influence, and it is crucial that they set a positive example for their followers.
In addition to urging peaceful conduct, the Chief Imam called on the Electoral Commission to ensure transparency throughout the process. He emphasized that a fair and transparent election is key to sustaining the trust of the people and preserving national peace.
“As citizens, we must keep the peace. He [Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu] calls on all those who are stakeholders in our election processes, i.e. the EC must do all that it takes to ensure that there is transparency and accountability, to ensure that we can have a credible election that will guarantee a credible result.
“Everything that the EC must do, the EC must make sure they do so. He calls on the political parties to be cautious about the way they speak to their supporters, the vitriolics, the diatribes, and some of the fierce statements that we see being put out there.”
