Why is it that anytime a Muslim aspires to lead Ghana, some Christians suddenly discover “fanaticism” as if our country is on the brink of religious war? Since when did Islam and Christianity, two Abrahamic faiths that share belief in one God, reverence for prophets, and values of peace and justice, become sworn enemies? “Se onipa bɔ dam a, ɛnyɛ Nyame na ɛyɛ no, ne ho ara na ɔyɛ no” (when a person acts foolishly, it is not God’s doing but their own,) as the late Apostle Dr. Emmanuel Owusu Bediako of The Church of Pentecost, USA once reminded us.
For decades, Ghana has been led by Christian presidents not because the constitution demands it, but because demographics tilted power that way. Yet the moment a Muslim like Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia steps forward, fearmongers rise, whispering about “unknown variables” and “dangerous possibilities.” These whispers are not born of fact but of prejudice, amplified by global headlines of extremism elsewhere. And let’s be honest: some politicians and pastors deliberately sharpen these fears for cheap votes. “Se wokɔtɔ nanka a, nsuo na ɛkɔtɔ mu, ɛnyɛ ne nsa”(when a crab is caught, it is because of the water, not its own hand) , again in the wise words of Apostle Bediako. The problem is opportunistic politics, not Bawumia’s faith.
Even scripture mocks this hypocrisy. Cyrus, a pagan Persian king, was chosen by God to deliver the Jews. He wasn’t a Jew, yet God called him anointed. Who then are we to insist a leader must wear the majority’s faith before God can use him? That is not spirituality, it is fanaticism. A crab does not give birth to a bird. If a political leader lacks character, no religious label will save him.
Leadership is not about religious badges; it is about integrity. The real questions Ghana must ask of Dr. Bawumia or any candidate are simple:
(a) Is he honest and trustworthy?
(b) Can he manage the economy and deliver public goods?
(c) Does he genuinely care for all citizens?
(d) Will he govern as president for all, not just Muslims, Christians, or any tribe?
If he measures up, then his faith is his private matter, not a national threat. To reject a man because he is Muslim while involving with Christian in political matters, it is hypocrisy and not faith. Like the adage says, “if you want to kill a dog, you first accuse it of madness.” That is exactly what these religious fearmongers are doing.
Ghana must grow up. Let us vote for political leaders with integrity, self control, tolerance, patience, competence, compassion, and inclusivity not by which holy book they carry under their arm, yet do not reflect on their behavior. God’s purpose has always worked through unexpected vessels. To deny that truth is to deny both faith and common sense.
