A section of the Zongo community has appealed to President John Dramani Mahama to upgrade the newly appointed Hajj Board Chairman, Tanko Abdul-Rauf, to the status of a Sole Commissioner of the Ghana Hajj Board.
According to them, this move would empower the chairman to discharge his duties diligently and without unnecessary interference.
They argued that the management of Hajj deeply connected to the Zongo and Muslim community, therefore, requires a unique approach, distinct from the governance of ordinary state institutions.
Community leaders explained that granting the chairman the mandate of a sole commissioner would allow him to appoint his own board members and administrative staff, making him directly accountable for both successes and failures.
They noted that, in the past, Hajj operations in Ghana had been marred by setbacks, sabotage, and internal rivalries due to the president’s direct appointment of board members.
“Previous Chairmen have often faced challenges where board members undermined their authority, insisting they had equal powers since they were appointed by the same president.
“This has weakened leadership and hindered smooth Hajj administration,” one community elder remarked.
The group urged President Mahama to take note of these longstanding issues and consider their appeal as a practical solution.
They further praised the president for his demonstrated commitment to the Muslim community, citing his reduction of Hajj fares and the appointment of qualified Muslims to key positions.
“These efforts show that President Mahama truly has the interest of Muslims at heart,” they emphasised, adding that their call was intended to support him in ensuring a more effective and credible Hajj administration.
