Member of Parliament for Ayawaso East, Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed, has raised concerns that residents of Zongo communities are being denied national identification documents, including Ghana cards and passports, based on perceptions that they are foreigners due to their names or backgrounds.
Speaking to journalists on Friday, March 20, Baba Jamal said communities such as Nima in his constituency have existed for generations and are home to diverse ethnic groups who are fully Ghanaian.
He warned that denying citizens access to identification documents not only violates their rights but also risks fostering tension and division in society.
“It is important that all of us take note of how people from the Zongos are sometimes seen as aliens or foreigners, and on that basis, many are being denied national ID cards, passports, and other identification documents just because of their names or ethnic backgrounds. This issue needs urgent attention,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to President Mahama for introducing an additional public holiday for Muslims during Eid-ul-Fitr, describing it as a thoughtful step toward inclusivity.
He noted that the extra holiday addresses differences in fasting periods while reinforcing unity among citizens.
“We thank the president for adding one holiday to Eid-ul-Fitr. Previously, some people fasted for 29 days while others fasted for 30 days, which caused challenges. With the two holidays now, everyone can celebrate Eid in peace and harmony,” he added.
Baba Jamal emphasised that Ghana’s strong interfaith harmony remains a source of pride, with Muslims and Christians openly supporting and participating in each other’s religious celebrations.
