Accra: The youth have been urged to value respect for the elderly, authority figures, and institutions of authority to maintain the cultural traditions of the state and promote harmony in society. The call to action comes at a time when societal norms are being challenged by the younger generation.
According to Ghana News Agency, the spokesperson for the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Aremeyaw Shaibu, emphasized the importance of these values during an interview following the celebration of the religious festival of Eid-Al-Adha. Sheikh Shaibu highlighted that Eid-Al-Adha, a period where animals are sacrificed to commemorate the act of Abraham and his son, serves as a reminder of the virtues that underpin the celebration.
Sheikh Shaibu expressed concern about the growing trend of abusive language, which he described as becoming a subculture in Ghanaian society. "Young people, in the name of free expression, can now subject their elders to insult and threats, hiding in the cloak of politics within the political space," he observed. He stressed that respecting the elderly and maintaining decent public speech are core values that are being eroded.
The spokesperson lamented that the lack of condemnation for such disrespectful acts within the political realm is damaging and leading the younger generation astray. He urged society to chart a rightful path for the future generation, emphasizing the importance of dignity and respect for elders, culture, and tradition.
Furthermore, Sheikh Shaibu recounted the moral lessons from the Eid-Al-Adha celebration, highlighting obedience to parents and authority as cherished Islamic values. He also pointed out the significance of loyalty to leadership, patience, and fortitude in overcoming life's challenges.
He urged the affluent in society to practice the virtue of sharing, reminding people that financial and economic disparities are part of life's reality. "As a society, we must remember that God did not create us equally in terms of our financial and economic fortunes. As such, we must position ourselves as avenues through which God blesses the less fortunate of society," he stated.
Sheikh Shaibu called for moderation in celebrations to prevent over-indulgence and advised the youth to comport themselves within the confines of the law, ensuring the beauty of the celebration is not marred. He also addressed the issue of drug abuse, describing it as a persistent problem that requires sustainable solutions from society at large.