The Minority Women Caucus in Parliament on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, paid a courtesy call to His Eminence Sheikh Dr. Usman Nuhu Shaributu, the National Chief Imam. The purpose of the visit forms part of moves by the female MPs to engage religious institutions and authorities, urging them to act as arbitrators and promote peace before, during and after the 2024 general elections.
The Caucus prayed for the Chief Imam’s continued good health and wisdom, acknowledging his invaluable leadership in promoting harmony and understanding among diverse communities.
Speaking during the visit, the Minority Women Caucus led by the Minority Second Deputy Whip, Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe emphasized their expectations that religious institutions, including the Chief Imam’s office, would play a crucial role in fostering peace as the country prepares for the 2024 polls.
Madam Doyoe who also doubles as the Ada MP, appealed to the various religious bodies to use their influence to maintain peace during the election.
“As a minority women caucus of parliament, we believe your guidance and influence can play a pivotal role in fostering a peaceful and transparent electoral process. We humbly implore you to use your esteemed position to advocate for a fair and violence-free election, ensuring that our democratic values remain untarnished.”
She expressed concern over the scars left by electoral malpractices and unfortunate incidents during the 2020 election, citing specific constituencies that experienced such incidents.
She also appealed to the Chief Imam to leverage his esteemed position to advocate for transparent elections, emphasizing the need to uphold democratic values.
Highlighting the Chief Imam’s leadership in promoting harmony and understanding among different communities, Doyoe conveyed optimism about achieving a future where elections reflect unity, justice, and the well-being of the nation. She encouraged all Muslims to embrace hope in John Dramani Mahama, emphasizing the winds of change blowing in the country.
The Caucus emphasized the importance of preventing incidents of violence and expressed hope for the Chief Imam’s intervention in fostering peace throughout the electoral process, urging various institutions to play a role in ensuring a smooth transition of power.
Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu expressed gratitude to the MPs for the visit and affirmed his commitment to promoting peace and unity.
“I will pray for a peaceful electoral process, and I hope that Ghanaians will unite for the progress and development of our beloved nation.”
As a gesture of support, the Minority Women Caucus presented a donation of 10,000ghc in cash and 40 bags of rice to the Chief Imam during the visit.
The team included Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba, MP for Tempane Constituency; Theresa Lardi Awuni, MP for Okaikoi North, and Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, MP for Dadekotopon.
