Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu
The National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, has expressed his condolences and those of the Muslim community to the bereaved family of the late former President Jerry John Rawlings, the government, and the nation during these difficult times.
In a statement, the Chief Imam stated that “the loss of such a great man to a family cannot go without emotional pains because of the depth of relationship. But as people of faith, we also believe that Allah gives and takes life any time He deems fit.”
Continuing, the Chief Imam said, “The late former President stood for the values of transparency, probity and accountability. He also cherished justice as a foundation for building a prosperous, peaceful, democratic state where every citizen should be protected by the law.”
Former President J.J. Rawlings, he went on, “occupies a special place in my heart owing to the manner he treated me as a father. The bond of relationship between us has, over the years, grown from strength to strength until his sudden death.”
To the entire bereaved family, he said, “My words of consolation is that may Almighty Allah grant them the strength of heart and spirit to endure the difficulties associated with losing such a dear one.”
And to the nation he prayed “may the demise of the former President J. J. Rawlings constitute a source of national unity in a state of common grief.”