Chairman of the Muslim Caucus of Parliament, Umar Farouk Aliu Mahama, has emphasized the critical values of peace, unity, and tolerance as foundations for a prosperous Ghana.
Speaking at the 13th Annual Night of Power held at the Parliament House on April 2, 2024, he invoked the divine favour and protection of Allah, stressing the event’s significance in fostering interfaith and intra-faith harmony.
“The ‘Night of Power’ is not only a spiritual milestone for Muslims but also a reminder of our shared duty towards peace and mutual respect,” he stated.
He drew upon the profound teachings of Islam and the exemplary life of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) to underscore the importance of love, acceptance, and understanding across diverse communities.
Farouk Aliu Mahama, also the Member of Parliament for Yendi stressed that the theme for the night, “Peace, Unity and Tolerance: The Road-Map to Prosperous Ghana,” is apt as there a nation that is divided cannot stand.
“Let us all continue to remain United in our resolve to run the affairs of our country democratically. We should not allow our differences in our opinions and choices to become stronger than our desire to hold our country together.”
“No nation in the world can prosper without peace. It is, however, important for us to know and understand that Peace is a bio-product of justice that is based on equity, equality, tolerance, honesty, and respect for human dignity.”
According to him, as Ghanaians desire their various political parties to run the affairs of the country, the campaigns should be carried out with respect for the dignity and liberties of one another.
“We should not insult or even make false accusations against one another as Muslims,” he said.
Hon. Farouk Aliu Maham also outlined the contributions of the Muslim Caucus in Parliament towards national development, notably through initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty among Muslims in Ghana.
According to him, the establishment of an Independent Zakat and Sadaqa Institution, in collaboration with the National Chief Imam and other prominent Islamic leaders, marked a significant step towards economic empowerment and social welfare within the Muslim community.
He indicated that the Zakat Fund, under the stewardship of Chief Alhassan Andani, has made notable strides in extending educational opportunities, medical assistance, and entrepreneurial support to underprivileged Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
He hailed the Ghana Police Service for setting a commendable precedent in Zakat and Sadaqa contributions, urging other public and civil service entities to follow suit.
He described the inception of the National Muslim Conference of Ghana (NMCG) as a pivotal development in amplifying the voice of the Muslim community within the governance process.
Farouk Mahama expressed gratitude towards the parliamentary leadership and media partners for their enduring support of the Muslim Caucus’s endeavors.
He extended a warm welcome to all attendees of the Night of Power, reaffirming the event’s role in fostering a spirit of brotherhood and collaboration among Ghanaians of all faiths.
“Let us stand united in our commitment to peace, unity, and tolerance. These values are not just the roadmap to a prosperous Ghana but also the essence of our humanity,” he stressed.