The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Dr Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, has condemned calls by a Muslim preacher for Muslims to unleash violence against persons who denigrate the Prophet of Islam, Prophet Muhammad.
He said such utterances were inconsistent with the teachings of Islam and had no place in Ghana’s peaceful, democratic and religiously diverse society.
“The National Chief Imam strongly condemns any call or encouragement to violence, irrespective of the provocation or circumstances,” a statement issued in Accra on Saturday and signed by the Executive Secretary of the Office of the National Chief Imam, Osumanu Seidu, said.
The statement emphasised that religious disagreements, offensive expressions or alleged insults must not be addressed through violence or vigilantism, but through lawful and constitutionally recognised processes.
It stated that Sheikh Dr Sharubutu acknowledged the subsequent public apology rendered by the preacher and appreciated his expression of regret, particularly his recognition of Ghana’s secular constitutional order and the need to preserve national peace and security.
The National Chief Imam, therefore, urged religious preachers, scholars and teachers to exercise circumspection, responsibility and restraint in the discharge of their duties.
“Religious teachings must be grounded in sound knowledge and communicated in a manner that promotes peace, tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence,” the statement added.
It further urged religious leaders to avoid emotional or provocative expressions that could be misunderstood, misinterpreted or exploited to incite hatred, violence or public disorder.
The statement also urged religious leaders to be mindful of the potential national security implications of their utterances.
Sheikh Dr Sharubutu appealed to Muslims and members of other faith communities to remain calm and refrain from sharing or responding to provocative materials in ways that could further inflame tensions.
The National Chief Imam reaffirmed his commitment to peaceful coexistence, religious tolerance, mutual respect and national unity.
He called on Ghanaians to uphold the rule of law, exercise restraint and work together to protect the peace, stability and security of the country.
BY MALIK SULLEMANA
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