John Dramani Mahama
Source: Africa Publicity
Former Ghanaian President, John Dramani Mahama, says it’s disheartening to see how the cost of embarking on hajj pilgrimage from Ghana has increased so sharply.
According to Mr. Mahama, during his time as President, Hajj fares in Ghana were much affordable at Ghc 11,900.
However, he said under the ruling New Patriotic Party’s administration, the cost of Hajj fares in Ghana has increased to Ghc 75,000, saying it was disheartening to see how the fares have increased so high.
Mr. Mahama made this known in a Facebook post on Sunday, June 16, 2024.
He wrote: “The current cost of the Hajj pilgrimage is undeniably a significant financial burden, making it challenging for many regular Muslims to embark on this spiritual journey”.
He lamented that: “Seeing the cost rise to GH¢75,000 is disheartening, leaving many with no option but to seek alternative routes for their pilgrimage. I fully understand the significance of the Hajj pilgrimage and the importance of making it accessible to all.”
Mr. Mahama – who is seeking a re-election in December 7, 2024 Presidential election – had earlier on Sunday, June 16, pledged to reduce the cost of Hajj when elected.
Addressing Muslims during the congregational prayers for Eid-al-Adha on Sunday with the Ahlussuna Wal-Jamah Muslim group at the forecourt of the State House in Accra, he said the Ghc 75,000 for Hajj was expensive, adding that it has become very difficult for ordinary Muslims to embark on the pilgrimage due to the new cost.
According to him, “Our pilgrims are in Mecca performing the Hajj. May Allah bring them safely home to us. Those who have been able to go are the privileged ones because we have had fares at GH¢75,000.”
He added: “It is very difficult for the ordinary Muslim to perform the Hajj but Insha Allah if we [Mahama] win in this election and we come into government, we are going to work to reduce the Hajj fare so that everybody can go.”
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