Mohammed Abdul-Salam, the newly appointed Acting Director-General of the National Lottery Authority (NLA), has addressed public concerns regarding his religious background following his appointment. A practising Muslim, Abdul-Salam emphasized that his selection was based on professional competence rather than religious affiliation, in accordance with Ghana’s secular governance framework.

In an interview on January 17, 2025, Abdul-Salam expressed excitement about his new role and responded to critics questioning the compatibility of his Muslim faith with his leadership position. “I am a practising Muslim, but I am not a fanatic or an extremist,” he stated, adding that his predecessor, Sammi Awuku, a Christian, had also led the NLA without issue.

Abdul-Salam further clarified that Ghana’s legal system separates religion from state governance, and the appointment of officials is based on their qualifications and abilities. “Ghana is a secular state. Positions of state are meant to be filled by competent individuals, not determined by religious affiliation,” he asserted.

Defending his appointment, Abdul-Salam underscored the President’s authority in selecting leadership, stating that the decision to appoint him to lead the NLA reflects the President’s judgment. He also reiterated his commitment to the role and rejected any notion of controversy surrounding his appointment.

Abdul-Salam’s tenure follows the resignation of Sammi Awuku, who stepped down on January 13, 2025, after being elected as the Member of Parliament for Akuapem North.

Source :TheDotNews