Ban on social gatherings does not stop us from praying - Muslims told

Islamic Scholar, Sheikh Osman Yeboah says the ban on Islamic activities does not stop muslims from praying to Allah.

Speaking on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5Fm, the scholar and cleric explained praying and worshipping God can be done anywhere and not just a mosque.

"The ban on Islamic gatherings does not mean you have been stopped from praying. You can pray anywhere you find yourself. Anyone who will argue that the ban on gatherings has prevented people from praying is false. As Muslims, we can pray to Allah everywhere we are.”

He added: "President Akufo-Addo did not seize your Qoran when he placed a ban on all forms of gatherings. Even when you travel to Mecca, they have banned all activities there. The place where Muslims go on pilgrimage has been suspended and so what are you talking about?”

He challenged muslims and christians to extend a helping hand to the poor in these difficult times since it is mandated by Allah for us to help the vulnerable.

He advised the public to adhere to the safety measures including the social distancing.

President Nana Akufo-Addo has lifted restrictions imposed on the movement of persons on Greater Accra and Greater Kumasi and surrounding towns as part of efforts to control the spread of the coronavirus.

According to the President, 3-week lockdown has achieved its objectives, among which was the need to scale up tracing and testing people who may have come into contact with those who had already tested positive.

The country’s borders remain closed.

But the ban on social gatherings, including religious gatherings, funerals, conferences and parties remain in force.

President Akufo-Addo also encouraged continuous adherence to social distancing protocols and urged the population to stay at home – unless absolutely necessary to go out. He also urged the wearing of face masks in public places, pointing out that the Health Ministry will soon issue guidelines on this. He also announced the district assemblies will come up with policies and mechanisms to decongest the country’s market centres to ensure social distancing.