Islamic Values in Nation-Building: The Role of the Muslim Post-Elections
The annual Greater Accra Regional Maulid celebration is a time of deep reflection and renewed commitment to the teachings of Islam. This year’s gathering, held under the theme “Islamic Values in Nation-Building: The Role of the Muslim Post-Elections,” carried special significance in the wake of Ghana’s 2024 elections. As Muslims, our duty to our nation extends beyond the ballot box. We are called to foster unity, promote justice, and contribute meaningfully to the development of our communities.
In delivering the welcome address on behalf of Sheikh Yahaya Amin – Founder & Leader of the IFPAD, Gafar Yahaya Amin emphasized the critical role of Islamic values in shaping a just and harmonious society. Quoting from the Qur’an, he reminded attendees of the divine command to uphold trust and justice, stating:
“Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice.” (Surah An-Nisa: 58)
This powerful verse reminds us that governance is a sacred trust, and both leaders and citizens share the responsibility of ensuring fairness, accountability, and the collective well-being of society. The address also highlighted the prophetic model of leadership, encapsulated in the hadith:
“The leader of a people is their servant.” (Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 2858)
Leadership, therefore, is not about privilege but about service and responsibility. The speaker urged political and religious leaders to embrace their roles with sincerity, while also encouraging the general Muslim populace to hold leaders accountable constructively and respectfully.
A key message from the Maulid celebration was the importance of unity and reconciliation, especially in post-election periods where divisions may arise. The Qur’an advises:
“And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided.” (Surah Aal-E-Imran: 103)
This call for solidarity resonated throughout the gathering, reminding attendees that differences in political affiliations should not overshadow the shared Islamic and national identity that binds us together.
The celebration also saw insightful contributions from distinguished guests, including Sharif Mohammed Munzal Uba (Sarkin Sharifai, West Africa), Sheikh Dr. Ali Shettima Al-Miskin both from Nigeria, and Sheikh Adam Bunkongu from Burkina Faso. Their speeches reinforced the significance of maintaining Islamic values in governance, strengthening community bonds, and ensuring that Muslims remain active participants in national development.
As the event concluded, one message stood out clearly: our responsibility as Muslims does not end with voting. It extends into being active agents of positive change, embodying the principles of honesty, justice, compassion, and selfless service. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:
“The most beloved of people to Allah are those who bring the most benefit to others.” (Al-Mu’jam Al-Awsat, Hadith 6197)
The Maulid celebration is a yearly event jointly organized by the Islamic Foundation for Peace and Development (IFPAD) and the Supreme Council for Tijaniya Islamic Affairs, Ghana with this marking the 57th edition.