The Member of Parliament for Ayawaso East, Mohammed Baba Jamal Ahmed, has issued a passionate plea for the fair treatment of residents in Zongo communities, alleging that many are being unfairly denied essential national identification documents based on their names or ethnic backgrounds.
Addressing journalists on Friday, 20th March 2026, the lawmaker expressed grave concern over reports that citizens in diverse hubs like Nima, communities that have existed for generations, are being treated as foreigners during the application process for Ghana cards and passports.
Mr Ahmed warned that these perceptions not only violate fundamental rights but threaten the very fabric of national unity. He stressed that the diversity of the Zongo enclaves is a pillar of Ghanaian identity, not a reason for exclusion.
“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 stated.
The MP emphasised that the denial of these documents prevents citizens from participating fully in the economy and accessing critical government services, risking increased social tension and division.
In a shift to religious affairs, the lawmaker expressed deep appreciation to President Mahama for the recent introduction of an additional public holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr.
He described the move as a “thoughtful step” toward ensuring every Muslim can celebrate the end of Ramadan regardless of the lunar calendar’s variations.
The extra day, he noted, addresses the practical challenges that arise when some communities complete 29 days of fasting while others observe 30.
“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.
Concluding his remarks, the Ayawaso East representative pointed to Ghana’s unique interfaith relationship as a “source of pride” for the nation.
He highlighted the seamless way in which Muslims and Christians participate in each other’s religious festivities, urging authorities to mirror this spirit of harmony in the administration of national identification.
By resolving the bottlenecks at registration centres, the MP believes the state can better reflect the inclusive values that the new holiday policy seeks to promote.
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Source: www.myjoyonline.com