Imam Calls for Closure of Pubs, ‘Wee’ Base Before Elections.

Accra: Sheikh Dr. Amin Bonsu, an Imam and Islamic scholar, has called on the government to close all drinking spots and 'wee' joints across the country during the election period. He proposed that the three days, from December 06 to December 08, be declared alcohol-free days to prevent intoxication, which could lead to violence and disturbances at voting centers. Sheikh Dr. Bonsu made the call in an interview with the Ghana News Agency as part of his peace campaign ahead of the elections. He urged the youth, particularly those in the Zongo and inner-city communities, to avoid being manipulated into causing unrest.According to Ghana News Agency, Sheikh Dr. Bonsu stressed the importance of staying away from actions that could lead to harm or bring distress to themselves and their families. 'That day, make sure you do not influence yourself with drugs. If any of you smoke, or any engages in drugs, put a stop to that during the exercise so that nobody can buy your mind.' He further advised, 'Don't allow yoursel f to be cheated. Do not allow yourself to be insulted because if that man will not allow his child to risk their lives and engage in violence do not allow them to risk yours.'Dr. Bonsu, who is also the CEO of Amen Scientific Herbal Hospital, called on politicians to be cautious in their statements and actions, emphasizing that everything they say or do should contribute to peace and national development. He stressed the need for clean, responsible campaigns focused on persuading voters, rather than resorting to tactics that incite violence or unrest. 'Elections are democratic processes for the selection of leaders and must not be used as a vehicle to sow seeds of discord among Ghanaians,' he said.Dr. Bonsu urged independent state institutions, such as the Electoral Commission and the Judiciary, to maintain fairness and transparency in their operations to prevent any suspicions or doubts from political parties. He also advised religious leaders to refrain from making false prophecies regarding the election results, warning that such actions could harm the integrity of the democratic process.