As Muslims across the country prepare to mark Eid ul-Adha, the Interior Minister, Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak, has stepped out with a clear message: keep the peace and watch the surroundings. He wants the celebration to serve as a bridge for unity, urging the community to focus on coexistence with neighbours, regardless of their faith.
Eid should be an opportunity to strengthen unity, peace.
He specifically cautioned against the use of harsh words or engaging in any rancour that could dampen the spirit of the day. The stability currently enjoyed in Ghana is a major factor in the national development agenda. He expects the faithful to pray for the continued progress of the country.
Beyond the spiritual focus, the minister had some direct advice for the youth in Zongo communities. He pointed out that handling animals for the traditional sacrifice can turn dangerous if not done with caution. Avoiding avoidable accidents should be a priority for everyone participating in the slaughtering process this year.
Sanitation is another area the minister is particularly keen on. He's calling for proper disposal and cleaning both before and after the slaughtering of animals to prevent the spread of diseases. A clean environment is just as essential as the celebration itself to ensure everyone stays healthy during the festivities.
Alhaji Muntaka also turned his attention to the political climate, asking Ghanaians to show patience. He urged citizens to continue praying for President John Dramani Mahama and his entire administration as they work to meet their promises to the people. Government officials often make this appeal while they're navigating the pressure of governance.
This celebration of Eid ul-Adha, often called the 'Festival of Sacrifice,' commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. In Accra and other major cities, it's usually a time for communal feasting and sharing with the less privileged. The call for patience and stability reflects the administration's desire to keep the public focus on national development rather than domestic or political friction.
Managing a large-scale festival involves logistics that go beyond mere prayers, especially in densely populated areas. By highlighting sanitation, the minister is addressing the persistent waste management challenge that often follows large gatherings in urban centers. Ensuring that animal waste doesn't clog drainage systems or create public health hazards is a recurring concern for municipal authorities every year.
The minister, who has served as the Member of Parliament for Asawase in the Ashanti Region since 2005, isn't a stranger to the delicate nature of community relations. His history as a former Minister for Youth and Sports often influences his direct communication style with the youth. He knows that in places like Kumasi, a word from him carries weight, especially when it comes to keeping the peace in the bustling Zongo neighborhoods.