The National Chief Imam of Ghana, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, has made an urgent appeal to politicians and all key stakeholders to prioritize peace as the December 7 general elections approach. With the elections drawing nearer, the Chief Imam emphasized the importance of peaceful conduct throughout the democratic exercise and called for responsible behavior from all involved.
In a critical time for Ghana’s democracy, the Chief Imam has urged political leaders to be mindful of their language and to avoid making inflammatory statements that could incite unrest or discord among the people. The Chief Imam’s message is particularly important given the charged atmosphere that often accompanies election campaigns. His call for restraint aims to prevent any escalation of tensions that could threaten the peace and stability of the country.
During a meeting with a group of Muslim youth in Accra, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu stressed the pivotal role that politicians and other key players have in ensuring that peace prevails throughout the entire electoral process. He noted that while the Electoral Commission (EC) has the primary responsibility for organizing the elections, ensuring peace is a collective duty that requires the active participation of all stakeholders, including political parties, candidates, and their supporters.
Speaking through his spokesperson, Sheikh Armiyawo Shaibu, the Chief Imam underscored the importance of civility in political discourse. He pointed out that politicians, being at the forefront of the campaign season, bear a significant responsibility for maintaining a tone of respect and decency in their utterances. Given their influence, the words of political leaders carry immense weight, and reckless statements can have far-reaching consequences.
The Chief Imam’s call for peace goes beyond just the actions of politicians. He also appealed to the Electoral Commission to ensure transparency and fairness in its conduct. According to Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, the credibility of the elections depends not only on the behavior of political actors but also on the integrity of the electoral process itself. Transparency, he said, is key to building trust in the system and ensuring that the results of the election are accepted by all.
“As citizens, we must keep the peace,” the Chief Imam emphasized through Sheikh Armiyawo Shaibu. “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.”
The Chief Imam also urged political parties to exercise caution in their communications with their supporters. He expressed concern over the increasingly hostile rhetoric that has characterized some of the campaign messaging, warning that such language could incite violence or deepen divisions among the electorate. He specifically called on political leaders to avoid vitriolic attacks and divisive statements that could inflame tensions.
“Everything that the EC must do, the EC must make sure they do so,” Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu emphasized. “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.”
The Chief Imam’s appeal is timely, as the December elections are expected to be hotly contested, with the potential for tensions to rise. His message of peace is a reminder that the stakes of the elections go beyond the individual ambitions of political candidates and parties. What is at risk is the stability and unity of the nation.
In addition to his appeal to politicians and the Electoral Commission, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu called on all Ghanaians to play their part in maintaining peace. He stressed that peaceful elections are a collective responsibility, and every citizen has a role to play in ensuring that the country remains stable and united during this critical time. He encouraged all citizens to remain calm and respectful, regardless of their political affiliations, and to avoid engaging in activities that could disrupt the peace.
The Chief Imam’s call reflects his long-standing commitment to promoting peace and unity in Ghana. Over the years, he has been a consistent advocate for dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence, particularly during moments of national significance such as elections. His leadership and moral authority continue to serve as a guiding force for many Ghanaians, especially in times of uncertainty.
As the December 7 elections approach, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu’s appeal for peace serves as a crucial reminder of the need for responsible behavior from all parties involved. The success of the elections, and the future of Ghana’s democracy, depend on the ability of political leaders, the Electoral Commission, and the electorate to work together in ensuring a peaceful, transparent, and credible process.
In the end, the Chief Imam’s message is clear: peace must be the priority. It is only through peace that Ghana can continue to thrive as a beacon of democracy and stability in the region. His call for calm, respect, and transparency is a call to protect the future of the nation and to ensure that the democratic process serves the best interests of all Ghanaians.
