Vice-President Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has called on Ghanaians to prioritize ideas, policies, and solutions when selecting the next President of Ghana in the upcoming December elections.
Speaking at the 2024 Eid Prayers at the Black Star Square in Accra, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the importance of unity and policy-driven elections, urging citizens to avoid focusing on religious differences.
“As we go to the December polls, let’s make it about ideas and solutions to the problems of our country. We live as Muslims and Christians in harmony and should not let these elections be about religion or religious differences,” Dr. Bawumia stated.
He stressed the need for a unified nation, focusing on the policies and solutions each candidate offers.
During his address, Dr. Bawumia sought support and prayers from the National Chief Imam for success in the polls.
He underscored the importance of tolerance and peace, urging the electorate not to allow the December 7 election to disrupt the nation’s stability.
In his message to the Muslim community celebrating Eid-ul-Adha, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the significance of the festival, which commemorates the selflessness and sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim. He encouraged Muslims to emulate these virtues by serving humanity with care and kindness.
“Let us always be inspired by his act of selflessness and sacrifice by caring for each other and for a worthy cause for the betterment of their families and communities,” he said, wishing all Muslims Eid Mubarak and advising the youth to celebrate modestly.
Reflecting on the Akufo-Addo-led Government’s performance, Dr. Bawumia acknowledged the economic challenges but noted that the government’s prudent measures were gradually leading to recovery.
He highlighted key policies implemented by the government, including free Senior High School education, free TVET, skills training, entrepreneurial empowerment, and the creation of 2.1 million jobs over the past seven years.
Dr. Bawumia also mentioned the positive impact of the Zongo Development Fund, which has improved social amenities in Zongo communities and provided education scholarships for 40 Muslim students to study medicine abroad.
In a message read on his behalf by his spokesperson, Sheikh Dr. Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam emphasized the need for religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence among all faiths.
He condemned religious extremism, conflicts, and violence, urging Muslim youth to adhere to laws governing the electoral process.
The Chief Imam also called on the Electoral Commission to conduct free, fair, and transparent elections and encouraged security agencies to remain professional.
Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Feast of Sacrifice, is a major holiday celebrated by Muslims worldwide.
It commemorates the historic event when Prophet Ibrahim was commanded by God to sacrifice his son, Ishmail, but was later instructed to sacrifice a ram instead.
The festival is marked by special prayers, new clothes, gift exchanges, and communal gatherings.
