The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has called on Ghanaians of various faiths and religions to maintain peaceful co-existence to strengthen national cohesion.

Speaking to the clergy in the Northern Region, Dr. Bawumia emphasised the importance of interfaith harmony, expressing his comfort and confidence in associating with Christians, as directed by the Holy Prophet Mohammed.

“I don’t think that being a true Muslim means that you cannot get close to Christians. I don’t see how being a true Christian, you cannot get close to Muslims,” Dr. Bawumia stated.

He further explained: “Prophet Mohammed said to the Muslims that of all the religions and faiths of this world, Muslims should get closer to the Christians. That is what the Prophet Mohammed said and so I am very much comfortable and confident in getting close to Christians. My brothers and sister are Christians and I cannot say that I will not get close to them.”

Dr. Bawumia also highlighted the need to continue promoting peaceful co-existence among different faiths in Ghana to prevent the influence of jihadists who seek to exploit religious disagreements.

“There are many people who are uncomfortable with us [Muslims] getting closer [to Christians] and that is how jihadists and all of the extremists benefit. We are a peaceful country and we always get closer and so let us keep it that way,” he urged.