Bawumia’s inter-faith dialogues laudable
“If we live peacefully in Ghana despite our religious and political differences, it is because of such tolerance and respect for diversity,”
In a show of solidarity and commendation, the Council of Regional Imams has urged Vice-President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer, Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia, to continue fostering unity through his consistent interactions with the Christian community in Ghana.
The appeal was made during a courtesy call by the Council to Dr. Bawumia’s residence over the weekend to congratulate him on his election as the NPP flagbearer.
The visit follows recent disparaging remarks by National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament for Ningo Prampram, Samuel Nartey George, who questioned Dr. Bawumia’s Islamic faith due to his regular engagements with Christians. The comments, including describing the Vice President as a “religious prostitute,” have faced widespread condemnation.
A spokesperson for the Council of Regional Imams expressed appreciation for Dr. Bawumia’s efforts in promoting religious diversity and unity, describing his tolerance and respect for religious differences as commendable.
The spokesperson emphasized that Dr. Bawumia’s actions align with Islamic principles, citing historical instances where Prophet Muhammad established positive relationships with non-Muslims.
The Council categorically condemned the comments made by Sam George, asserting that such attacks were baseless and unfounded.
They urged Dr. Bawumia to remain committed to being a leader for all Ghanaians, emphasizing the unity of the people.
“Your tolerance and respect for religious diversity is commendable. You are doing the right thing by maintaining a very strong relationship with the Christian community as a leader to strengthen harmony. We are one people,” stated the spokesperson for the Council of Regional Imams.
The Council highlighted the Prophet Muhammad’s positive relationship with Christians in Madina and cited examples of Muslim leaders globally fostering good relations with their Christian counterparts.
They urged Dr. Bawumia to disregard the disparaging comments and continue promoting unity in Ghana.
“The gentleman did not speak well at all because we are one people in this country. By your position, you are a politician and a leader, so you belong to everyone. Continue to be for all because we are one people in Ghana,” the Council emphasized.
Dr. Bawumia, responding to the Council’s visit, reiterated his commitment to being a President for all if elected into office, irrespective of religious, ethnic, or political affiliations.
He emphasized the importance of respecting diversity and engaging more with each other to preserve the peace and harmony enjoyed in the country.
“I am for all, and if I am elected President, in shaa Allah, by the good people of Ghana, I will be a President for all, regardless of one’s ethnic, religious, and political affiliations,” stated Dr. Bawumia.
He underscored the need for an inclusive nation that provides equal opportunities for everyone, addressing issues such as poverty, hunger, and disease without discrimination.
Acknowledging Ghana’s diversity and the peaceful coexistence of Christians and Muslims, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the importance of continuously strengthening the harmonious relationship between the two leading religious groups.
He highlighted the role of tolerance and respect for diversity in maintaining the peace and harmony enjoyed in the country.
“If we live peacefully in Ghana despite our religious and political differences, it is because of such tolerance and respect for diversity,” he noted.
Dr. Bawumia called for ongoing efforts to respect diversity, engage more with each other, and strengthen the relationship between religious groups to preserve the peace in the country.
Source:zedmultimedia
