The Coordinator to the Western North Regional Chief Imam, Alhaji Abdul Rahman Halidu, has raised serious concern about the increasing tendency among some political actors to drag religion into partisan debates, warning that the trend poses a major threat to national peace and cohesion.
According to him, Ghana’s democracy has matured over the years through tolerance and respect for diversity, and any attempt to blend politics with religion could inflame passions and divide communities along faith lines.
In an interview with the Daily Times Newspaper, Alhaji Halidu noted that the growing practice of politicians using religious platforms to advance partisan interests or attack opponents is “dangerous, disrespectful, and against the spirit of national unity.”
> “Religion is a sacred institution that must never be used as a political weapon. When we politicize religion, we invite confusion, suspicion, and hatred into our places of worship,” he cautioned.
He cautioned that once religious spaces become politicized, they lose their moral authority and risk alienating members whose political beliefs may differ. “Mosques, churches, and shrines must remain neutral grounds where truth, peace, and righteousness are upheld, not platforms for political propaganda,” he added.
Touching on social media abuse, Alhaji Halidu described it as another dangerous trend that must be checked immediately. He said the level of insults, falsehoods, and inflammatory content circulating online has reached alarming levels and must be called to order.
> “Social media is now being used to spread hate and attack people in the name of politics and religion. This must stop,” he stressed.
He admonished the youth to avoid such unwanted behaviours, reminding them that they are the future of the country and must not destroy their own tomorrow through reckless online conduct.
Alhaji Halidu further urged law enforcement agencies to crack the whip on those who use social media to promote hatred, division, and religious intolerance. “The laws must work. Freedom of speech does not mean freedom to insult,” he insisted.
Concluding his remarks, Alhaji Abdul Rahman Halidu appealed to all Ghanaians, regardless of political or religious background, to rise above partisan emotions and defend the unity that has kept Ghana stable for decades. “Our peace is our greatest blessing. Let’s not destroy it with careless words and partisan motives,” he emphasized.
#Please call him for insight into the story on 0249662731
