Bawumia’s presidency is not an Islamic project – Mustapha Hamid

Dr Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, a religious scholar and First National Vice Chairman aspirant of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), refuted allegations that Dr Mahamudu Bawumia's presidential aspirations are part of a plan to transform Ghana into an Islamic state. He asserted that Ghanaian Muslim voters, in the 2024 election, did not align their political choices with their religious affiliations.

Dr Abdul-Hamid emphasized that religious identity and political allegiance are distinct in Ghana. He criticized the notion of viewing Bawumia's potential presidency as a religious project, stating that his career and political agenda largely revolve around economics and national development. He dismissed the idea that introducing Arabic as an optional subject in basic schools is part of an Islamisation agenda, explaining that Arabic is a language distinct from Islam.

Dr Abdul-Hamid also debunked concerns about interest-free banking being an attempt to impose religious practices on the population, arguing that it would provide new financial opportunities. He cautioned the public against using religious differences for political gains, especially in the lead-up to the 2028 general election, urging voters to consider candidates based on their competence, character, and ability to govern rather than their religious backgrounds.