Paragraph 1: A Victory Forged in Faith and Community
Ghana’s political landscape shifted with the December 7, 2024, elections, ushering in a new era under the leadership of President-elect John Dramani Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC). This victory, however, was not solely the result of political maneuvering and campaigning; it was deeply rooted in the unwavering support and fervent prayers of Ghana’s Muslim community, particularly those residing in the Zango communities. These communities, often characterized by their vibrant Islamic culture and traditions, became pivotal players in the NDC’s electoral success. Their collective prayers for a peaceful election and a decisive victory for the NDC resonated throughout the campaign period, creating a palpable sense of hope and anticipation.
Paragraph 2: Gratitude and Recognition at the Ahlusunna Gathering
The significance of the Muslim community’s contribution was publicly acknowledged at the annual gathering of the Ahlusunna movement in Winneba on December 31, 2024. Alhaji Baba Lami Abu Sadat, former Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya, acted as the emissary of President-elect Mahama and the NDC, conveying their profound gratitude to the assembled community. He reflected on the prayers offered a year prior, specifically for a peaceful election and an NDC triumph, and expressed heartfelt thanks to Allah for answering those prayers. Alhaji Abu Sadat emphasized the instrumental role played by the unwavering support and prayers of the Muslims, recognizing their contribution as a cornerstone of the NDC’s victory.
Paragraph 3: A Call for Unity and Development Beyond Politics
Beyond expressing gratitude, Alhaji Abu Sadat’s message extended towards unity and development. With the political season concluded, he urged a shift in focus towards the betterment of Islam and the Zango communities. He stressed the importance of transcending political divides, calling upon all residents, regardless of their affiliations, to collaborate in uplifting the Zangos. This call for unity echoed the spirit of collective action that had characterized the election period, harnessing the same energy towards community development. The message resonated with the gathering, emphasizing the shared responsibility for the progress and prosperity of their communities.
Paragraph 4: Mahama’s Commitment to the Muslim Community and the Zangos
Alhaji Abu Sadat reassured the gathering of President-elect Mahama’s deep commitment to the Muslim community and the Zango communities. He conveyed the incoming administration’s prioritization of their development, promising tangible improvements in the coming year. He painted a picture of future gatherings, envisioning the 2025 event as a platform to showcase the tangible achievements and positive impacts of the government’s programs on the lives of individuals within the Zangos. This commitment underscored the importance of these communities within the national development agenda and signaled a promising future of collaboration and progress.
Paragraph 5: A Token of Appreciation and a Bridge to the Past
A tangible expression of gratitude came in the form of a token presented by Alhaji Abu Sadat to Sheikh Bashir Yandu, a revered cleric of the Ahlusunna Muslim sect. This gesture, on behalf of President-elect Mahama, symbolized the deep respect and appreciation for the community’s support. Alhaji Abu Sadat also solicited prayers for the new government, seeking divine guidance in fulfilling their promises to the Ghanaian people. Sheikh Bashir Yandu, accepting the token, shared a personal anecdote of his long-standing relationship with Mahama, tracing back to his tenure as Vice President. He commended Mahama’s consistent engagement with the Muslim community and recalled past promises fulfilled, solidifying the bond of trust between the leader and the community.
Paragraph 6: Prayers for the Future and a Call for Continued Engagement
Sheikh Bashir Yandu’s concluding remarks carried a significant request: an invitation for President Mahama or his representative to grace the next Ahlusunna gathering in December 2025. This request symbolized a desire for continued engagement and a strengthening of the relationship between the government and the Muslim community. The ceremony concluded with collective prayers, invoking blessings of peace, progress, and prosperity upon the Zango communities and the nation as a whole. These prayers encapsulated the hopes and aspirations of the community, reflecting their faith in a brighter future under the new administration. The gathering served not only as a celebration of electoral victory but also as a testament to the power of community, faith, and the promise of collaboration towards a shared vision for the future.
