Sempe Muslim Akwashongtse pays courtesy call on Chief Imam

The Sempe Muslim Akwashongtse, Nii Adote Otintor Odaawulu I paid a courtesy call to the National Chief Imam of Ghana, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, on Monday to inform him about the ban on drumming and noise-making within the Ga Traditional areas.

The Sempe Muslim Akwashongtse, who made the call on behalf of Ga Mantse King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, appealed to Muslims through the National Chief Imam to ensure strict adherence to the directives outlined by the Ga Traditional Council.

He stated that the National Chief Imam and the entire Muslim ummah have lived peacefully with the Ga people over the years, respecting their traditions and culture without any problems.

The purpose of his call was to remind the Muslim community that the ban on drumming and noise-making has started, and therefore all Muslims should strictly adhere to the ban.

He emphasized that it is necessary for every individual on Ga Land to respect the culture and traditions of the landlords and to live in peace and tranquility with them.

This, he said, would strengthen the relationship between the Ga people and other tribes within the Ga traditional areas, fostering unity and understanding for all.

"As Muslims, we are aware of the stipulated times for prayers; therefore, reducing the volume of the speakers will not affect our daily prayers during the period of the ban," he noted.

He appealed to the leadership of various mosques in the Ga traditional areas to abide by the regulations governing the ban and called on their members to also adhere to it and refrain from any form of derogatory comments related to the ban on noise-making.

The Sempe Muslim Akwashongtse commended the Muslims within the Ga traditional areas for their commitment over the years to ensuring adherence to the ban and urged them to exhibit the same this year.

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has announced a ban on drumming and noise-making activities across the various traditional areas in the Ga state, effective from May 6, 2024, to Thursday, June 6, 2024.

Nii Adote Otintor Odaawulu I urged residents of Accra to conduct their activities within the confines of their premises, with churches, mosques, and pubs being specifically singled out for compliance.

Furthermore, the AMA's statement stipulated that roadside evangelists must cease their activities during this period.

Additionally, the Ga Traditional Council has introduced guidelines, including a ban on funeral rites and other activities.

This comprehensive measure aims to maintain peace and tranquility within Accra during this designated period.

By restricting noisy gatherings and outdoor events, authorities seek to minimize disruptions as preparations for the Homowo festival begin.