Kekeli Muslim Community Calls for Revision of NLA Managing Director Appointment

The Kekeli Muslim Community (KMC) has urged President John Mahama to reconsider the appointment of Mohammed Abdul Salaam as the Managing Director of the National Lottery Authority (NLA).

The community expressed concern over the decision, citing Islamic teachings that strictly prohibit gambling, betting, and lotteries.

In a statement addressed to the Ghana News Agency, the KMC emphasized that the Quran explicitly forbids “games of chance,” highlighting a verse from the Quran: “O you who believe! Intoxicants and games of chance and idols and divining arrows are only an infamy of Satan’s handwork. Leave it aside that you may succeed (Quran 5:90).”

The statement also referenced a Hadith, where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warned against participating in games of chance, stating that “He who plays games of chance has disobeyed Allah and His Messenger.”

According to the KMC, appointing a Muslim to head the NLA is seen as a contradiction to Islamic values and an offense to the Muslim community.

The group believes that the appointment may negatively influence Muslims, especially the youth, by encouraging them to engage in what they deem as “haram” activities.

The Muslim community further appealed to the President, urging him to reconsider his decision and revise the appointment.

The KMC expressed hope that such a move would demonstrate Mahama’s commitment to upholding Islamic principles and prevent any potential harm from the appointment.

In addition to their appeal, the KMC called on Muslim leaders and clerics to join forces in addressing the matter.

They urged the President to act promptly to avoid further controversy and ensure the continued trust and cooperation between the Muslim community and his administration.

The community’s appeal reflects a growing concern about the alignment of national appointments with religious values and the potential impact on the wider society, particularly on the younger generation.