By Edward Dankwah
Accra, March 15, GNA – Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, the Minister of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs (MLGCRA), has donated some items to some Muslim Communities in the Greater Accra Region.
He also paid a visit to the National Chief Imam of Ghana to seek his blessings upon his assumption of office.
The Muslim communities visited included the residence of the National Chief Imam, Al-Sunnah Wel-Jamaah Muslim Community, the Ahmadyya Muslim Mission and the Shia Muslim Community.
Mr. Ibrahim donated bags of rice and sugar to these communities, with an amount of money, in support of the Observance of the Holy Month of Ramadan.
During the visits to the various Mission homes, discussions were centered on the longstanding concerns and grievances that required attention.
Representatives of the Mission homes expressed their desire for prompt resolution to these issues, emphasising the importance of peaceful coexistence and harmonious relationships among all parties involved.
They expressed their deep appreciation for Ghana’s longstanding tradition of religious tolerance, acknowledging it as a valuable national asset, and offered their prayers and support for initiatives that fostered a culture of mutual respect and understanding.
The sector minister said in recognition of the spiritual significance of Ramadan, the Ministry had taken the initiative to provide support to leadership during the holy month.
He said as fasting was observed by all, regardless of socio-economic status, they acknowledged the increased reliance of vulnerable communities on leaders during and after the Ramadan period.
“As an interface between government and faith-based institutions, we consider this outreach an integral part of our religious and social responsibility,” he added.
Mr. Ibrahim said concerns were raised regarding restrictions on Muslim students’ religious rights in some mission schools.
He added that a collaborative platform would be established, involving the Education Ministry, Ghana Education Service, and leaders of faith-based institution, to find a mutually acceptable solution that respected the rights of all students.
The Minister said the President had mandated the Ministry to establish a National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service, bringing together Muslim and Christian communities, where a task force would be formed with representatives from both sectors to coordinate this inclusive national event.
Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam, expressed his deepest gratitude to the Local Government Minister for his unwavering support and visit.
He prayed for God’s strength and success to be bestowed upon the Minister, acknowledging the immense responsibility entrusted to him.
Sheikh Sharubutu wished the Minister’s stewardship to be guided by divine wisdom, much like Ghana’s remarkable ability to maintain peace and harmony despite its diverse population.
The National Chief Imam highlighted Ghana’s exemplary unity, where Christians and Muslims coexisted in perfect harmony.
He attributed this peaceful coexistence to their shared origin from Adam and Eve, emphasising Allah’s intention for humanity to live in peace rather than conflict.
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