The annual obligatory Ramadan fasting for adherents of the Islamic faith is around the corner and as usual the leadership of the religion are going to meet to discuss matters pertaining to it. The discussion takes the form of a conference called the Ramadan Hilal Conference whose theme for this year is: 'Challenges of leadership facing the Muslim Community in the 21st Century.'

Billed to take place in Kumasi on 11th and 12th November 2000 delegates are requested according to a release signed by Alhaji Awaisu Biu, a PRO at the Office of the National Chief Imam, to report on Friday 10th November 2000 at the Kumasi Central Mosque.

In another development the National Chief Imam, Alhaji Usman Sharubutu has appealed to Ghanaian Muslims both home and abroad to contribute towards the construction of the national mosque work on which has already commenced. His appeal was also directed to Islamic countries to provide material and financial support for the ultra modern mosque.

The chief Imam also appealed to all Ghanaians to maintain peace in the forthcoming general elections and asked religious leaders to continue to pray for the peace and prosperity of the nation.

On the impending elections the Federation of Muslim Councils has added its voice to the numerous calls on the Electoral Commission to place the interest of the nation first and conduct the polls in an honest and transparent manner devoid of suspicion.

A release signed by the National Coordinator of the federation, Hajj Abdullah S. Williams went on to ask politicians to eschew defamatory and malicious statements, which can create unnecessary tension.

The electorate it went on would rather have honest manifestos that address the poor and unfavourable living conditions of Ghanaians and elevate them from the present hopelessness and degradation were presented.

The FMC went on to ask Muslims to fast and supplicate especially during the Ramadan for peaceful and successful election of people of substance and probity to administer and manage the affairs of the country.

The federation took a look at the crisis in the Middle East and called for level headedness and sincerity in finding quick and positive solutions to the problem.

It went on to condemn the senseless and indiscriminate killings of Muslims and called for an immediate cease-fire.