The Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Mahama, has pledged to reduce Hajj fees if elected as president on December 7.
He made this promise while addressing the chiefs and residents of Gambaga-Nalerigu during his campaign tour of the North East region.
The predominantly Muslim residents in these areas are seeking transformative policies and projects from the NDC under Mahama’s leadership, particularly concerning the cost of Hajj. As a former president, Mahama pointed out that Hajj fees were quite affordable during his administration. However, he criticised the current government for significantly increasing these fees, which has placed a financial burden on Muslims wishing to travel to the Holy Land.
Mahama stressed that his previous government invested in initiatives that ensured a stable and affordable Hajj pilgrimage, encouraging many to undertake the journey. “We developed the Tamale Airport so our people wouldn’t have to travel all the way to Accra to fly to the Holy Land,” he said.
He condemned the current high costs of the Hajj pilgrimage, labelling the ruling government as insensitive to the needs of those who hope to benefit from it. “As President, I witnessed the first flight from Tamale Airport that went directly to Medina, transporting our pilgrims to Mecca. We managed to keep the costs very low,” he recalled.
Mahama contrasted the past price of GH₵11,900 with the current fee, which now exceeds GH₵75,000 for pilgrims. He assured the audience that a future NDC government would reverse the current Hajj costs and work to improve the livelihoods of the people.
