President John Dramani Mahama has urged Ghanaians to uphold the country’s image as a model of democracy in Africa in the 2016 general elections.
Speaking at the Independence Square in Accra to mark this year’s Eid-ul-Adha prayers, President Mahama emphasized the need for Ghanaians to maintain peace before, during and after the elections.
[contextly_sidebar id=”tXIotZeMwWlOCgIqh1PykYHoicONOzA0″]“As we gradually inch towards the 2016 general elections, we should all endeavor to uphold the peace that has characterized our elections. It is this that has made us to be described as the model of democracy in Africa. I am always thankful that Allah has blessed me with the opportunity to be the President of such an industrious united and peace loving people like Ghanaians. It is for this reason that I am very confident that once again when our democratic credentials are tested on December 7, we will respond with vigor and deliver yet another peaceful, fair and transparent election to the world.”
Hajj challenges
President John Mahama also expressed his dissatisfaction with challenges associated with the organization of this year’s Hajj.
The President’s comment comes days after hundreds of prospective pilgrims were stranded for days at the hajj village in Accra, and failed to make the trip.
Some prospective pilgrims accused the organizers of sending non-Muslims and business men and women to Saudi Arabia, only to do business and not to perform the ritual.
But President Mahama at the event , announced measures government has put in place to prevent a recurrence of such challenges.
“This year, we conducted a successful Hajj, and I wish to express my regret to all who due to certain reasons were unable to embark on the Hajj this year. This was due too many factors. One was the airlifting of 2,000 passengers from the Tamale International Airport, which was very well patronized, and reduced the quota of those who took off from Accra.
“Another factor was the dramatic growth in pilgrim numbers beyond the quota that was assigned Ghana by the Saudi authorities. I have asked the Hajj committee to request an increase in our quota of pilgrims from the current 5,424, to 7,000 pilgrims next year. “
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By: Marian Ansah/citifmonline.com/Ghana