The National Chief Imam of Ghana, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) and political stakeholders to prioritize transparency and accountability in the upcoming December 7 general elections.
As the nation approaches a pivotal democratic exercise, the Chief Imam has urged political leaders to exercise caution in their language and avoid making inflammatory statements that could incite unrest or division among the public.
Addressing a group of Muslim youth in Accra, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu emphasized the crucial role politicians and key players must play in ensuring peace during the electoral process. He pointed out that the responsibility for peaceful elections extends beyond the Electoral Commission and requires a collective effort from political parties, candidates, and their supporters.
Speaking through his spokesperson, Sheikh Armiyawo Shaibu, the Chief Imam stressed that politicians, being at the forefront of the campaign season, bear a special responsibility to maintain civility in their utterances, as their words hold significant influence.
The Chief Imam also urged the Electoral Commission to ensure transparency throughout the process.
“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.”
He further emphasized the need for the EC to uphold its duties to secure public trust. “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,” he added.
Sheikh Sharubutu’s appeal comes at a time when the nation is gearing up for an important election, with calls for all involved to uphold peace and integrity throughout the process.