Ashanti Regional Muslim Leadership Apologizes To Mahama Over ‘Shoe In Mosque’ Controversy

In a reconciliatory move, a delegation representing the Ashanti Regional Muslim leadership has extended a formal apology to former President John Dramani Mahama over recent allegations of religious impropriety. The controversy emerged after the Ashanti Regional Chief Imam, Sheikh Abdul Mumin Haroun, claimed in a GHOne TV interview that Mahama had entered a mosque with his shoes.

The delegation, which excluded Sheikh Haroun, visited the National Democratic Congress (NDC) regional headquarters to express regret and seek pardon for the unfortunate incident. A spokesperson for the delegation acknowledged the gravity of the situation and emphasized their desire for an amicable resolution.

“We are here because of recent developments concerning our regional Chief Imam. What happened was not in good taste, and so we are here to beg the NDC and the former president to let go of the matter,” the representative stated.

NDC regional chairman, Augustus Nana Akwesi Andrews, responded by affirming that the party had already moved past the issue. He emphasized the NDC’s commitment to spiritual support for Mahama’s political aspirations.

“So, we appeal to you when you go into your places of prayer, to include him in your supplications so that his dream for Ghana will materialize when he becomes the next president of Ghana,” Andrews urged the Muslim leaders.

The controversy arose when Sheikh Haroun, in addressing attacks on Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia by Ningo-Prampram Member of Parliament, Sam George, alleged that Mahama had entered a mosque with shoes. Pro-NDC activists promptly countered the claim by circulating photos and videos of Mahama’s visit to the mosque in October.

In the debunking evidence, Mahama is seen wearing black socks as he walks towards the meeting venue, contrary to the Chief Imam’s assertion. The video further supports the authenticity of the photos, showing the former president being cheered as he walks across the mosque.

Critics of Sheikh Haroun accused him of misrepresenting publicly verifiable facts, with some suggesting a political bias, as the Imam has previously expressed support for Vice President Bawumia and the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP).

The apology from the Ashanti Regional Muslim leadership marks a step towards resolving the issue and fostering religious harmony within the region.

Source: GhanaFeed.Com