The Women’s Wing of the Islamic Mission Secretariat (IMS) recently conducted a significant event known as “Tahajjud,” an all-night prayer vigil aimed at seeking peace for Ghana in the lead-up to the 2024 general elections. Held from midnight to 5:00 AM at the IMS Headquarters in Kropo, Ashanti Region, the gathering focused on prayers for peace, justice, economic growth, and prosperity across the nation. This five-hour-long prayer vigil was a primary feature of the 26th Annual General Conference of the Women’s Wing, which took place in Kumasi from Thursday to Sunday under the theme, “Towards Peaceful Elections, The Role of a Muslim Woman.” Imam Abdul Rahman Ibrahim, along with several prominent Imams of the IMS, led the prayers, reinforcing the belief that heartfelt supplications made during this sacred time are particularly powerful.
Hajia Mariam Nketia-Suleiman, the General Secretary of the Women’s Wing, expressed the importance of the Tahajjud prayers, citing the Islamic principle that “night prayers are better than sleep.” She stressed that the conference aimed to raise awareness among Muslim women regarding their roles and responsibilities in fostering a peaceful atmosphere during the election season. Nketia-Suleiman called for a collective effort to demand assurances of peace and justice from influential stakeholders like the Electoral Commission and political party leaders. She encouraged the participants to reject material temptations that could sway their moral compass, urging adherence to truth and justice in all walks of life, from home to the public domain.
As Ghana nears its pivotal Presidential and Parliamentary elections in December, Nketia-Suleiman’s message emphasized the need for peaceful interactions and the rejection of divisive rhetoric. She issued a warning to particularly Muslim women and youth to remain vigilant against manipulative tactics employed by resourceful individuals seeking to incite discord. The Qur’an cautions against unjustly consuming wealth and participating in bribery, depicting the necessity for integrity in these critical times. Advocating for peace, she insisted that Muslim women should lead their communities in promoting justice while avoiding the pitfalls of corruption that could threaten the country’s harmonious coexistence.
Adding to these sentiments, Umi Meimuna Abban, the National Coordinator of the Women’s Wing, delved into various educational components, including effective home management, child-rearing strategies, and relationship advice grounded in Islamic teachings. Sheikh Haruna Appau, the National President of IMS, echoed the need for unity among Muslims and all Ghanaians in promoting a peaceful electoral process. He defined politics as a constructive platform for citizens to express their views and aspirations without succumbing to violence and division. Furthermore, Appau highlighted the urgent need for collective action against environmental degradation, calling on traditional leaders, clergy, and citizens to collaborate in combating illegal mining activities that compromise water resources.
The conference’s approach was multifaceted, blending spiritual devotion with practical engagement through various activities such as sports, quizzes, health talks, and vocational training sessions. These initiatives aimed to equip participants with essential skills in diverse areas, including fresh yogurt preparation, pastry making, and cleaning services. Additionally, the event served a charitable purpose, raising funds for infrastructure development projects initiated by the Women’s Wing. The event was well-attended by notable figures, including Sheikh Abdul Mumin Harun, the Ashanti Regional Chief Imam, alongside representatives from various sectors, demonstrating a collective commitment to peaceful governance.
In an effort to promote social responsibility, participants engaged in community service by marching through strategic streets of Kumasi to advocate for peaceful elections, further amplifying their commitment to this cause. This outreach was punctuated by a generous donation of assorted foodstuffs to the Asuofia Prisons in Kumasi and sanitary materials to the Suntreso Government Hospital. The members also took part in a cleaning exercise in the hospital’s wards, underscoring their dedication to improving local healthcare services. Overall, this conference not only served as a platform for spiritual upliftment but also as a rallying point for collective action aimed at fostering peace and positive community engagement in Ghana during this crucial electoral period.
