Prominent Ghanaian journalist Abdul Hayi Moomen has strongly condemned the assault of a pastor in police custody. This incident involved a man slapping a pastor reportedly arrested for comments deemed offensive to Prophet Muhammad.
Moomen stated that Muslims must be among the loudest voices condemning this act. The pastor was already under arrest and reportedly in handcuffs. He was in the custody and presence of the police at the time of the assault. Moomen argued that at this point, no private citizen had the right to take matters into their own hands.
This event highlights broader concerns about the rule of law and state authority in Ghana. It raises questions about the safety of individuals in police custody. The incident also sparks discussions on religious tolerance and the appropriate response to perceived offenses. Ghana's legal system provides clear processes for addressing alleged crimes, including religious commentary.
Abdul Hayi Moomen emphasized that the slap did not defend the Prophet Muhammad. Instead, he believes it insulted the Prophet's example. He stated that the Prophet endured insults and hostility with patience, wisdom, and restraint. The Qur'an instructs Muslims to invite others to the way of their Lord with wisdom and good instruction. It also commands believers to respond to evil with what is best.
Moomen further explained that Islam does not become stronger through violent acts. Such actions provide ammunition to those who wish to portray Islam negatively. He urged Muslims to condemn extremism without hesitation or excuses. He believes that wrong remains wrong, even when one feels provoked or angry. The faith is not so fragile that it needs illegal acts to defend it.
The journalist also raised a critical national concern regarding the authority of the state. He questioned what it says about state authority if a person can be assaulted while handcuffed in a police station. Once arrested, the state assumes responsibility for a suspect's safety. Being arrested does not cancel a person's human dignity or rights.
Moomen warned against a dangerous path where citizens assault suspects in custody. He noted that today it might be someone accused of insulting a religious figure. Tomorrow, it could be someone accused of insulting a chief or a politician. This trend could lead to anger, rather than law, becoming the standard for administering punishment. This is not the Ghana or the Islam that people should aspire to.
Therefore, Muslim scholars, Imams, youth leaders, and ordinary believers must courageously isolate extremist behavior from Islam. Condemning such conduct protects Islam from misrepresentation. It upholds the principles of justice and peace that are central to the faith. The Qur'an declares there should be no compulsion in religion, meaning faith cannot be forced. Muslims' responsibility is to explain, educate, and persuade through their conduct. They must demonstrate why they love the Prophet and why attacks on his personality are painful. Where speech crosses legal boundaries, the law should be used. Replacing the law with fists means losing the moral argument.