Alhaji Mustapha Abubakar, a prominent member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and former Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Microfinance and Small Loans Centre (MASLOC), has vocally rejected media claims that seek to link Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams to certain provocative comments circulating on social media. He condemned these assertions as false and malicious, emphasizing that they are unfounded and stem from intentional mischief. Alhaji Abubakar pointed out that such unfounded accusations could only come from desperate factions within the New Patriotic Party (NPP), which he believes are attempting to incite unnecessary religious tensions between Christians and Muslims.
Responding to a specific report disseminated by NPP TV, allegedly based on content from Yen.com, Alhaji Abubakar firmly denied that Archbishop Duncan-Williams made the statements attributed to him. His refutation of these claims is not only based on his conviction about the accuracy of the Archbishop’s character but is also supported by a disclaimer issued by Yen.com, confirming that their content had been misrepresented. This combined response sheds light on the potential dangers of misinformation and the tactics being employed by certain political groups to achieve their ends, particularly in attempting to cause rifts in the country’s religious communities.
Moreover, Alhaji Abubakar criticized the campaign strategies of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and the NPP for adopting tactics that exploit religious differences. Instead of focusing on the pressing issues affecting Ghanaians, he advised the Bawumia campaign to refrain from engaging in divisive politics that target revered religious leaders. His call for unity and understanding is aimed not only at political actors but also at the general populace, encouraging them to resist sensationalized news and the polarization that often accompanies politically motivated rhetoric.
Highlighting the long-standing reputation of Archbishop Duncan-Williams as a figure of unity, Alhaji Abubakar underscored the clergyman’s history of promoting harmony among different faiths. He recalled instances where the Archbishop has publicly praised the discipline and dedication of Muslims, showcasing his commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue and understanding within the nation. This context reinforces the idea that the Archbishop, rather than being a cause of division, serves as a bridge between the Christian and Muslim communities.
In light of the unfolding situation, Alhaji Abubakar urged the public to treat the misleading reports with the contempt they deserve, imploring citizens to exercise discernment regarding the veracity of information they encounter, especially on social media platforms. He emphasized the importance of critically evaluating sources and resisting the allure of sensationalism, particularly when it involves respected religious figures like Archbishop Duncan-Williams. Such caution is crucial in an era where misinformation can quickly circulate and create unwarranted conflicts within society.
In conclusion, Alhaji Mustapha Abubakar’s denunciation of the false claims regarding Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams stands as a call for unity and a plea for integrity in political discourse. His insights underscore the responsibility of all political entities to prioritize constructive dialogue and the well-being of the populace over divisive tactics that exploit religious sentiments. As Ghana navigates its complex socio-political landscape, the need for leaders who advocate for peace and interfaith collaboration remains paramount, lest the nation fall into the trap of unnecessary discord.
