Don’t politicise Prophet Muhammed’s birthday celebration — Chief Imam

Sheikh Usmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam, has urged political activists not to use this year’s Maulid festival as a platform for political campaigning.

This is due to the fact that the celebration’s holiness, importance, and meaning are solely religious rituals that need to be respected as such.

Tomorrow, on the 12th day of the third month in the Islamic calendar, is the celebration of the Maulid, which honors the birth of the Prophet Muhammad.

Sheikh Sharubutu made the appeal last Wednesday during a press conference on the celebration at his home in New Fadama, Accra, through his spokesperson, Sheikh Armiyawo Shaibu.

The press briefing was intended to address problems of concern that over time have undermined the religious ceremony’s importance, sacredness, and basic purpose.

Like in previous years, a large number of individuals from many walks of life, including Christians, are anticipated to attend this year’s festival.

“We have observed in recent years that the celebration is gradually losing its significance, meaning, and sanctity due to a number of issues” the Chief Imam emphasized.

He advised avoiding making politically charged statements that would likely provoke negative reactions from rival politicians.

Sheikh Sharubutu issued a warning against any interference or suggestions made behind closed doors to influence the way the program was conducted. He also advised against showing off party hats and other party T-shirts or veils bearing political party symbols, packing the celebration area too tightly, and making noise or jeering any significant guests of the Chief Imam, as this would be considered a violation of the national Chief Imam’s dignity and lessen the significance of the Maulid.

“I want to sound a note of caution that it is a violation of my respect and dignity that you should disrespect my guests,” Sheikh Sharubutu advised.