The Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak, has commended Ghana’s long-standing Christian-Muslim tolerance, describing it as a cardinal bedrock for the country’s peace and security.
Speaking at an engagement with Christian and Muslim religious leaders in Accra, the Minister noted that Ghana’s decades-old culture of religious harmony must be preserved and strengthened.
His comments come in the wake of a recent altercation between a pastor and an imam that sparked public concern.
Addressing the incident, Hon. Mubarak expressed appreciation to the Inspector General of Police, the National Chief Imam and Christian leaders for their swift intervention, patience and maturity in de-escalating tensions.
‘We saw leadership in action. The way our religious leaders and the Police Service handled the matter shows the level of understanding and tolerance that defines us as Ghanaians. That is what we must continue to protect,’ he stated.
Hon. Muntaka assured the religious leaders and the public that the Ministry and the security services will remain neutral in all matters, regardless of who is involved. ‘Crime will be treated as crime and we will deal with perpetrators in accordance with the law, without fear or favour, to ensure that no one uses religion to undermine our peace,’ he assured.
He explained that meeting was to thank the religious leaders for their timely intervention and support, reaffirm the neutrality of himself and the security agencies, seek their views on improving religious tolerance and explore more effective ways of collaboration to keep the country united. ‘Our diversity is our strength. Let us guard it jealously so that Ghana remains a beacon of peace in the region,’ he added.
The religious leaders in attendance commended the Minister for the continuous stakeholder engagement, noting that such dialogue is key to fostering peace and stability in the country.
In response to concerns raised, the Minister assured that they would be addressed. He also confirmed that the National Peace Council will continue its efforts to promote peaceful coexistence nationwide.
