In an effort to ensure a peaceful and secure electoral process ahead of the December 7 elections, the Election Security Task Force has engaged the National Chief Imam and the Muslim community at the National Mosque in Kanda, Accra.
The meeting, which took place on Friday, November 22, highlighted the task force’s commitment to promoting unity and peace among Ghanaians.
The Commissioner of Police, Alhaji Lansa Seidu, represented the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) at the event and assured the Muslim community of maximum security protection before, during, and after the elections.
He emphasized that the task force has implemented comprehensive measures to enable Ghanaians to exercise their right to vote without fear or intimidation.
Recognition of Muslim Community Efforts
The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, was commended for his ongoing efforts to promote peace, particularly among the youth in Zongo communities.
He has been championing initiatives to educate young people on the importance of refraining from electoral violence and upholding the values of peace and stability.
Chief Superintendent Grace Ansah Akrofi, Head of the Public Affairs Directorate of the Ghana Police Service, echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of unity and collaboration among all stakeholders.
She affirmed the task force’s dedication to engaging various groups to maintain peace throughout the electoral process.
A Historic Engagement
Alhaji Jabu Kango, a representative of the National Mosque and the office of the National Chief Imam, expressed profound gratitude for the engagement, describing it as a historic moment for the Muslim community.
“This is the first time the Muslim community is directly engaging with the Election Security Task Force to understand its role in safeguarding the electoral process.
We are grateful to the IGP and his team for this initiative, which highlights the respect accorded to the National Chief Imam as the leader of Muslims in Ghana,” he said.
He further acknowledged the task force’s assurance that Muslims, especially those from Zongo communities, should feel confident about participating in the elections without fear of violence or discrimination.
“The perception that Muslims and Zongo youth are linked to violence must change. This initiative reassures us that the police will ensure our safety as we cast our votes,” he added.
Sustained Collaboration
The National Chief Imam’s office and the National Mosque have pledged to work closely with the Ghana Police Service on voter education and peacebuilding campaigns.
This collaboration will involve community sensitization efforts to encourage peaceful behavior during the elections.
The Election Security Task Force’s engagement with the Muslim community is a significant step in fostering trust and ensuring a secure environment for all Ghanaians to exercise their civic rights.
As the nation prepares for the polls, stakeholders continue to prioritize peace as a cornerstone of the democratic process.
