The Chief Imam in the Western Region, Sheikh Uztaz Elias Alhassan, asked all Muslims in the region to delay their return to Friday prayers in mosques.
Muslims across the country were officially permitted to gather in mosques to pray from Friday (5 June) onwards. This followed President Akufo-Addo’s announcement of the first phase of lifting of the coronavirus restrictions.
However, Sheikh Alhassan directed Muslims to halt all preparations towards Friday prayers.
Keep mosques safe
The Regional Chief Imam said the delay in resuming normal prayers had become necessary to ensure that all mosques are safe for congregants.
He explained that checks by Ghana Health Service officials had shown that most mosques did not meet safety protocols.
He therefore advised all Muslims to continue to observe Friday prayers at home for the next four weeks. This, he said, would allow for the mosques to be prepared to meet safety and hygiene protocols.
Sheikh Alhassan made this known through his spokesman Osam Alhassan in an interview with Empire FM.
Churches advise members to worship at home
Some churches have also urged their members to continue fellowshipping at home despite the easing of restrictions.
The International Central Gospel Church (ICGC) announced that it would not reopen its premises immediately.
“No ICGC local assembly shall be opened to run in-person church services until so advised by the Presbytery,” said a statement from the church’s Presbytery to all branches.
The Maker’s House Chapel has also asked its members to continue worshipping in their homes, while the Perez Chapel International has resumed church services in “smaller congregational sizes”.
E A Alanore
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