Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Muhammad, Ahlus Sunnah Wal-Jamah (ASWAJ) Imam of Cape Coast, has implored citizens to desist from leveraging the ongoing geopolitical turbulence in the Middle East to exploit their fellow citizens.
He cautioned that such behaviours could lead to a sudden economic downturn, eroding the progress made in the past months and bringing hardship onto the people.
The ongoing war between Iran and Israel supported by the United States continues to impact the globe harshly as it has started affecting oil prices, and experts have warned that Ghana could be in dire straits if it continued unabated.
Sheikh Muhammad indicated that instead of using the unrest as an opportunity to hike prices to cheat people to make money, citizens should pray for peace to prevail in the affected countries.
“Actions like that do not please God, and the ripple effect is difficult times for all of us. Let us come together and pray for the Almighty Allah Himself to intervene to bring peace,” he stressed.
Sheikh Muhammad issued the caution when he led hundreds of Muslims in the Cape Coast Metropolis in the Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at the Victoria Park to mark the end of Ramadan.
It was an atmosphere of both solemnity and joy as the beautifully dressed believers, both young and old, heartily participated in the sacred ritual, standing, bowing, and kneeling in prayers.
In his message, Sheikh Muhammad called on all leaders of the country to serve with honesty and to always prioritise the interest of the people.
Touching on Ramadan, the ASWAJ Metro Imam underscored the importance of fasting, citing both health and spiritual benefits.
He clarified that fasting was not a punishment but a ritual that took believers closer to Allah and saved them from trouble.
He urged all Muslims to live righteous lives to glorify Allah to be embraced by Him after death, stressing that life on earth was short.
Sheikh Muhammad cautioned the youth to celebrate in moderation and avoid fomenting trouble.
He further urged modest dressing among the youth, particularly women.
Contrary to criticisms advanced by many, maintaining that the Islamic way of dressing on a restriction on women but reduces their susceptibility to illnesses, rape and other social vices.
Mr George Justice Arthur, the Mayor of Cape Coast, called for peace and togetherness to drive the country forward.
He requested prayers for leaders of the country and prayed for peace in the Middle East, stating that peace in those regions was peace everywhere.
Mr Arthur sensitised the gathering to the Assembly’s eight-year development plan, which included roads, infrastructure, tourism, education, and youth employment and rallied the support of residents for the plan.