I pray that Allah forgives NAPO – Mahama reacts to allegations that NDC doesn’t like Muslims

Former President, John Dramani Mahama has responded to recent comments made by Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the running mate of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, who alleged that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) does not value Muslims.

Mahama took to Facebook to offer a prayer for NAPO, emphasising unity and respect among Ghanaians.

“In the spirit of unity and progress, I pray that Allah forgives Napo for his recent comments. It is vital to remember that faith and respect go hand in hand, and I trust that we can all learn from these moments. Let us continue working together to build a more inclusive and harmonious society,” John Dramani Mahama posted.

Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, commonly known as NAPO, stirred controversy while touring several constituencies in the Savanna Region on November 7.

He said it is an "abomination" (haram) for any Muslim to vote for the NDC, arguing that the opposition party has a history of sidelining Muslim leaders and disrespecting Islamic values.

“Haruna and Muntaka Mohammed, who removed them? John Mahama. They are Muslims oo, he said they are Muslims so they can’t lead NDC,” NAPO declared during his address.

NAPO also claimed that the NDC has a track record of demolishing mosques, pointing to the destruction of the "number one mosque" in Accra, which was reportedly replaced by the construction of Rawlings Park.

He cited another example in Koforidua, where he alleged a mosque was demolished and the area converted into a garbage dump.

“That is NDC for you. NDC, they don’t like Muslims,” NAPO concluded, urging Muslim communities to support the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as a means of uplifting their livelihoods.

In his response, Mahama chose not to engage in a direct rebuttal but instead focused on promoting unity and respect.

Mahama’s response is being interpreted as a call for calm and a reminder of the importance of religious tolerance in Ghana’s diverse society ahead of the 2024 General Election.