In what arguably might be one of the most controversial statements, the Minister of Energy, Matthew Opoku Prempeh, commonly known to many as NAPO, has stated that as far as the Quran is concerned, it will be "haram" for a Muslim to vote for the National Democratic Congress in the impending elections in Ghana. The assertion, which has become a subject of very hot debates among social media commentators and political analysts, was made during a political rally in the Ashanti Region.
NAPO, being one of the leading members of the New Patriotic Party, instituted that the policies and actions of the NDC do not mean well for Islam. He cited some of the social and cultural stances of the party, which he argued run contrary to the principles of Islamic teachings. He has made specific reference to the NDC's progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights, insinuating that such a position could never be reconciled with the doctrines of Islam.
"Islam is a religion that uplifts high moral and ethical standards. The NDC has openly supported policies that directly run in opposition to those standards. As Muslims, we cannot support a party that promotes what is clearly against our faith," NAPO declared.
His statement really drew very sharp responses from both his supporters and those opposed to him. Many in the NPP hailed him for the speech, adding that he was only trying to protect Islamic morals in politics. On the other hand, some NDC members and a number of political thinkers attacked NAPO, saying he had introduced faith into political matters merely to gain favor with the electorate.
NDC has vigorously denied such allegations that their policy goes against Islamic principles, shouting that their commitment to human rights, inclusivity, and social justice reflects the values of equality and compassion that Islam equally promotes. "Our party has always championed the rights of all people, regardless of faith or orientation," said the senior NDC official in response.
In recent times, the churches and the politics of Ghana have been at loggerheads, but NAPO's statement gives a fresh turn to the already running political rivalry as the country inches toward the 2024 general elections. In that way, religion is expected to feature among the topmost issues towards shaping the electoral choices that will be made.
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