The National Muslim Conference of Ghana, led by National Chief Imam Sheikh Dr. Nuhu Sharubutu, has presented a 14-point ‘Muslim Manifesto’ to the leadership of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).
The meeting, attended by NDC leader and flagbearer John Dramani Mahama, national executives of the party, and some members of parliament, discussed several proposals from the manifesto.
These include the construction of STEM and TVET schools in all Zongo communities across the nation’s sixteen administrative regions, an amendment to the interstate succession bill to allow Muslims to inherit according to Islamic ordinances, and the establishment of modern abattoirs adhering to World Health Organization standards in all regions of Ghana.
Additionally, the conference proposed the formation of a permanent pilgrimage board to facilitate annual trips to Mecca.
The General Secretary of the Conference, Alhaji Inusah, explained that the Muslim community believes they have been deprived of equal opportunities and that presenting the Muslim Manifesto to political parties is a proactive step to avoid neglect in the future.
In response, Mahama acknowledged that many of the points in the Muslim Manifesto are already included in the NDC’s 2020 People’s Manifesto.
He assured the Muslim community that the NDC manifesto committee would consider the critical issues and recommendations from the Chief Imam’s proposal to ensure they benefit from their due share.
Mahama also announced plans to decentralize the STEM program in secondary education and establish a National Pilgrimage Authority to oversee pilgrim activities in Ghana if elected in the 2024 general elections.
Mahama expressed appreciation to the National Chief Imam and his entourage for their visit and proposals, showing his gratitude for their proactive step in making it easier for him as the NDC flag bearer.
Source: Hamdia Mohammed