National Chief Imam condemns Eid-day confusion among Ahlussunnah over parliament forecourt prayers
His Eminence the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, has expressed concern over the disagreements that marred the celebration of Eid-Al-Adha among members of the Ahlussunnah Wal Jamaah (ASWAJ), describing the development as unfortunate and contrary to the spirit of the sacred occasion.
In a statement signed by Dr Mohammed Marzuq Abubakari Azindoo, Personal Assistant to the National Chief Imam, noted that the dispute within the Islamic sect centres on issues of leadership legitimacy, constitutional interpretation and financial accountability. However, the disagreement that unfolded on Eid day specifically related to which of the two Deputy National Imams of Ahlussunnah had the authority to lead the congregational prayer at the forecourt of Parliament in Accra.
The Chief Imam called on all parties involved to embrace peace and reconciliation, stressing that while Ghana is widely recognised for its interfaith harmony, it is equally important for religious groups to maintain unity and cordial relations within their own communities.
He urged members of the Ahlussunnah fraternity, particularly the youth, to show respect for leadership and conduct their criticisms responsibly.
According to him, Islam permits constructive criticism, but such criticism must be expressed with decency, humility, rationality and within the bounds of the law.
“Indeed, language vulgarism in the name of leadership criticism is incompatible with Islamic moralism,” he stated.
His Eminence also appealed to leaders within the fraternity to demonstrate patience, tolerance and forgiveness in managing internal disagreements and fostering unity among members.
Reflecting on the dispute, the Chief Imam observed that the true challenge facing the Ahlussunnah community is not the existence of disagreements, but the inability to resolve them amicably.
He expressed his readiness to support efforts aimed at resolving the impasse, indicating that both religious and secular approaches could be employed to facilitate reconciliation.
The Chief Imam further reminded members of the fraternity that finding a peaceful solution to the conflict is a shared responsibility and a civic obligation.