The National Chief Imam of Ghana, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, has appealed to politicians and all key stakeholders in the upcoming December 7 general elections to prioritise peace.
With the December polls inching closer to what promises to be a critical democratic exercise, the Chief Imam has urged political leaders to temper their language and avoid inflammatory statements that could stir unrest or discord among the populace.
In an address during a meeting with a group of Muslim youth in Accra, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu emphasised the pivotal role that politicians and other key players must play in ensuring that peace prevails throughout the electoral process.
According to the Chief Imam, peaceful elections are not only the responsibility of the Electoral Commission (EC) but also require concerted efforts from political parties, candidates, and their supporters.
Speaking through spokesperson Sheikh Armiyawo Shaibu, the Chief Imam pointed out that politicians, being at the forefront of the campaign season, are especially responsible for maintaining a tone of civility and respect in their utterances, as their words carry immense weight and influence.
He also urged the Electoral Commission to ensure transparency.
“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.”