Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak has issued a stark warning over the ongoing controversy surrounding alleged restrictions on Muslim students at Wesley Girls’ High School.
He cautioned that the matter has the potential to create deep societal fractures if not handled with sensitivity and fairness. He stressed that issues involving religious freedom must never be taken lightly in a country as diverse as Ghana.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, November 29, the Minister expressed concern about what he described as a growing pattern of intolerance in some faith-based schools.
According to Asawase MP, both Christian and Muslim institutions must avoid practices that marginalise or discriminate against students on the basis of their beliefs.
“We must be very careful. These things may look small, but they can degenerate our society into something else if we don’t act responsibly,” he cautioned.
Mr Mubarak referenced ongoing allegations against Wesley Girls’ High School, where some Muslim students claim they are prevented from observing key religious practices.
He stressed that such concerns must be investigated thoroughly and addressed transparently to protect national cohesion. “When a student feels targeted because of her faith, it is not just a school issue; it becomes a national issue,” he added.
His warning comes as the Supreme Court has instructed the school’s board to respond within 14 days to claims regarding restrictions on fasting, prayer, and the wearing of hijab.
The controversy has drawn significant public attention, with civil society organisations, religious bodies, and legal experts all weighing in on what could become a landmark case for religious rights in educational institutions.
Mr Mubarak urged all stakeholders—school authorities, parents, religious leaders, and government agencies—to approach the matter with calm and respect.
He emphasised that Ghana’s peace is rooted in mutual tolerance and that any attempt to undermine that foundation could have far-reaching consequences.
“We must protect the harmony we have built over the years. No school policy should put that at risk,” he concluded.
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