The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, has expressed profound gratitude to Ghana's Muslim community and the Chief Imam for their significant role in upholding the nation’s secular character during the recent elections.

Speaking at the National Prayer and Thanksgiving (Muslim Prayers) on Friday, January 10, Mr Nketiah acknowledged the community’s commitment to ensuring that the December 7, 2024, general elections were centered on integrity, honesty, and competence rather than religious affiliations.

He emphasised the importance of maintaining Ghana’s secular state, as enshrined in the Constitution, where all citizens are treated equally, regardless of religion, language, or cultural background.

"There were attempts in the early part of the campaigning to make the election look like we were going to vote for people who are aligned with our religion. I think at some rallies I did indicate that that will be a very dangerous precedent for the country.

"The Constitution has established the state of Ghana to be a secular state, and so the responsibility of the leadership of the country is to create conditions where each and every citizen will be able to practice their faith, will be given equal treatment, will be given the opportunity to take advantage of anything that the state of Ghana can offer without looking at their religion, their language, or the dressing they put on," he said.

Mr Nketiah praised the Muslim community for embracing the message of unity and equality, highlighting how their support contributed to the election of a leader, President John Dramani Mahama, who is committed to fostering equity and fairness for all citizens.

"We are here today because we have elected a president whom we trust to create conditions of equity and fairness for every citizen to practice their religion, to create conditions of equity so that every citizen of this country can take advantage of all opportunities that the country can offer," Mr Nketiah said.

The NDC Chairman also acknowledged the prayers and support received from the Zongo communities during the campaign period, attributing the peaceful nature of the elections and the party's success to divine intervention.

“We thank you for the prayers that were offered to us in all the Zongo communities we visited. We know that Allah heard your prayers and chose President John Dramani Mahama for us, and that is why we have come here to thank you," he said.

Mr Nketiah reiterated the importance of Ghana’s democracy and its ability to endure challenges, affirming that the nation is on a path toward greater unity and inclusivity.