Accra, Feb. 1, GNA - Vice President Aliu Mahama, on Sunday, cautioned Muslims against offering themselves as paid agents to cause political violence and social unrest during this years' the electioneering campaign.
Addressing Muslims after Eid-ul-Adha prayers at the Independence Square in Accra, the Vice President said:" I am particularly concerned about the fact that the Zongos have become the grounds for the recruitment of political macho-men, especially in the election year, to cause political and social unrests in the society.
"These macho-men are often paid little allowances and abandoned after the exercise. I wish to strongly advice that we resist the temptations of such opportunists whose main objective is to undermine the integrity of the Zongo communities."
He, however, advised Muslims to participate fully in governance and contribute towards the entrenchment of democracy in Ghana. Those who qualify as voters, he said, should consequently register when the Registration Exercise begins to be able to exercise their franchise.
Vice President Mahama reminded Muslims that Islam was a religion of peace and urged them to uphold the spiritual values and moral precepts of the religion such as tolerance, peaceful co-existence and equality to facilitate the progress of their communities and the religion. On the significance of the Festival, he said, its focus on thanksgiving and sacrifice is a "wholesome combination of spiritual devotion and humanitarian benevolence.
"We need to bring these beautiful aspects of our religion to bear on our communities to hasten the pace of development in our country," he advised.
The ancient festival of Eid-ul-Adha signifies total commitment, dedication and submission to the will of Allah as exhibited by the Prophet Ibrahim when he willingly obeyed the command of Allah to sacrifice his son, Ishmael to him.
In line with the spirit of sacrifice, adult Muslims are enjoined to kill a ram, camel or cow as their offering to Allah. Muslims also distribute gifts on the occasion.
Vice President Mahama called on the Muslims to support the Government's efforts to bring socio-economic progress to Ghana. They should, therefore, support moves to widen the tax net to mobilize more resources for development projects.
Sheikh Usman Sharabutu, National Chief Imam, also advised the worshippers to desist engaging in violent acts and rather support each other.
He also told them to protect themselves against HIV/AIDS. The Chief Imam later slaughtered two rams. Ministers of State, Parliamentarians, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, Muslim Leaders and a large number of worshippers attended the ceremony.
