By Nadia Ntiamoah
The Office of the National Chief Imam has publicly expressed concern over what it describes as inappropriate and disrespectful conduct by certain politicians from Ghana’s two major parties, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), within Zongo communities.
In an official statement issued on February 18, 2026, the Chief Imam’s office noted a growing trend in which some politicians attempt to assert undue influence over religious events and gatherings, particularly those hosted by the Office of the National Chief Imam.
According to the statement, these politicians have reportedly harassed moderators, dictated seating arrangements, and made presumptuous remarks that reflect “the arrogance of power.”
The statement signed by Dr. Mohammed Marzuq Abubakari Azindoo, Personal Assistant to the National Chief Imam, further highlights that politicians have allegedly challenged decisions of the Chief Imam whenever public statements were issued in commendation of or sympathy toward their political opponents.
While the Chief Imam’s office emphasized its continued respect for both government and opposition leaders, it stressed that the relationship with political actors is “coordinative, not subordinative.”
The Chief Imam’s office made it clear that it operates as an independent institution guided by morality and secular principles, rejecting any attempts to be manipulated or treated as subordinate to political interests.
The statement described previous practices of political interference from party headquarters and Jubilee House as “a thing of the past” and warned that the current administration within the Office is prepared to stand against any form of bullying or coercion.
Chief Imam stated that while the misconduct is limited to certain politicians, the leadership of both the NDC and NPP does not endorse such behavior.
The statement urged party leaders to call these errant politicians to order, particularly those operating within Zongo communities.
In closing, the Chief Imam’s office appealed for a shift from impunity to responsibility, from arrogance to humility, and from tyranny to liberty, emphasizing the need for an environment of mutual respect in the service of God, humanity, and the nation.
