Accra: The Kekeli Muslim Community (KMC) has made an urgent appeal to President John Dramani Mahama, urging him to reconsider the appointment of Mr. Mohammed Abdul Salaam as the Managing Director of the National Lottery Authority (NLA). The community emphasizes that this appointment conflicts with Islamic teachings that strictly prohibit activities related to gambling.

According to Ghana News Agency, the KMC expressed their concerns in a statement, highlighting that Islam explicitly forbids gambling, betting, and lotto. They referenced the Quran, stating, "O you who believe! intoxicants and games of chance and idols and divining arrows are only an infamy of Satan's handiwork. Leave it aside that you may succeed (Quran 5:90)." The statement also cited a Hadith by the Prophet Muhammad, which states, "He who plays games of chance has disobeyed Allah and His Messenger," as narrated by Abu Dawud.

The KMC urged President Mahama to view the appointment as a potential affront to Islamic values, stressing that revising the decision would demonstrate a commitment to these values and prevent possible harm to the Muslim community, particularly the youth, who might be influenced to engage in such activities.

The community expressed hope that Muslim leaders and clerics would also engage with the President on this matter urgently. They believe that addressing this issue promptly would enhance trust and cooperation between the administration and the Muslim community.