Prez Mahama apologises to stranded Hajj pilgrims

President John Mahama has expressed regret over government’s inability to airlift all prospective pilgrims to this year’s Hajj in Saudi Arabia.

Irrespective, he noted that, the organisation of this year’s Hajj was a success.

Addressing Muslims at the Eid-ul-Adha prayers at the Independence Square in Accra, President Mahama said, “This year we conducted a successful Hajj…[but] I wish to express my regret to all who due to certain reasons were unable to embark on the Hajj this year.”

He noted as one of the successes, the ability to airlift 2000 passengers from the Tamale International Airport.

President Mahama however noted that one of the challenges in the organisation of the Hajj was the dramatic growth in pilgrim numbers beyond the quota that had been assigned Ghana by the Saudi authorities.

He therefore noted that he had directed the Hajj Committee to request an increase in the quota of pilgrims from the current 5424 to 7000 pilgrims next year.

Elections

President Mahama also urged Muslims to sustain the peace that has characterised elections in the country.

“As we gradually inch towards the 2016 General Elections, we should all endeavour to uphold the peace that has characterised our elections and has defined us as a people. It is this that has made us to be described as the model of democracy in Africa,” he said.

“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 remain confident that once again when our democratic are tested on December 7, you will respond with vigour and deliver yet another peace, fair and transparent election to the world,” President Mahama added.