Dr Abdussalam Adam, an Islamic scholar and a lecturer at the University of Cape Coast (UCC), has admonished Muslims to be guided by the key Islamic teachings of peace at all times.He urged Muslims, especially the youth to be ambassadors of peace as the December general election has arrived.
“Every Muslim should remain a crusader in his or her family and also a peace ambassador. If Ghanaians do not dedicate themselves and sacrifice their time, peace cannot be achieved”, he said.Dr Adam was speaking on the topic “Ensuring peaceful election 2016: the responsibility of all stakeholders” at an event organised by the Cape Coast Muslim Community to mark the birth of Prophet Mohammed.
He appealed to Muslim youth to uphold the values of Islam and refuse to be used as instruments of violence to destabilize the prevailing peace in the country.Dr Adam said peace was a necessary condition for development and prosperity and urged the electorate to take a cue from neighbouring African countries to conduct a violent free and transparent election.
He said stakeholders must campaign against electoral violence, adding that ensuring a peaceful election in a country was a huge responsibility which could not be put on the door steps of a single institution.Dr Adam reiterated calls on individuals, stakeholders and civil society groups to complement the efforts of state institutions in enforcing law and order in the country.
He called on Muslims to see themselves as brothers and sisters, avoid acts of violence.
Dr Adam also called on the law enforcement agencies to discharge their duties without fear and favour.Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Ken Kuntogli, Acting Regional Crime Officer, said the Region was relatively peaceful compared to other parts of the country.He said religious leaders must preach and impart the doctrines of their respective religions to their members to help reduce the incidents of crime in the country.
ASP Kuntogli urged the Muslims to respect their doctrine, be tolerant and obey the laws of the country to ensure peace during the election.Osabarima Kwesi Atta II, the Omanhen of Oguaa Traditional Area, called on Muslim youth to uphold the values of Islam and live exemplary lives for others to emulate.
He advised them not to avail themselves for politicians to use them to foment trouble in the society adding that Islam is a religion of peace.