Seasoned journalist Kwesi Pratt approached the issue from a historical and interfaith perspective, arguing that the ongoing conflict lacks any genuine religious basis. He described the tension as unnecessary and rooted in ignorance.
Pratt said many people leading religious disputes have little understanding of their own faith traditions. “Some of them are bishops, yet they are completely ignorant,” he stated on Good Morning Ghana on Metro TV as monitored by MyNewsGh.
He drew attention to Pope Francis’ widely publicized position. “Pope Francis said you don’t need to be a Christian to go to heaven. Anybody who does good can go to heaven. That statement hasn’t been overturned,” he emphasized.
Pratt further referenced early Islamic history, noting that Islam and Christianity share deep connections. “When God appeared to Muhammad, he sought confirmation from a Christian. It was a Christian who confirmed the voice was from God,” he said.
He added that Islam acknowledges Jesus as a prophet. “Islam accepts that Jesus is a prophet of God and that Muhammad came to expand the mission of Jesus the Christ,” he explained.
Pratt questioned why Christians and Muslims in Ghana are fighting over basic school practices when historically the two religions have shown mutual recognition and respect. “Why is the controversy? What is the basis of this fight?” he asked.
He added that many Muslim-majority countries allow space for Christian practice. “In real practice, there is tolerance. Christians are accepted as people of God,” he said.
Pratt argued that if religious groups understand this shared history, disputes like the one at Wesley Girls should not exist. “If you know these interpretations, why would you put up such a needless fight?” he concluded.
