Member of Parliament for Bawku Central and Majority Leader, Mahama Ayariga, has disclosed that two pilgrims from his constituency who took part in the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage are currently missing.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament, Ayariga attributed the situation to language barriers and the advanced age of some pilgrims, which makes it difficult for them to navigate the crowded and complex Hajj environment.
“I cannot account for two of my pilgrims. I have been calling our Consular Officer there to help us find where they are because some of them are very old people,” Ayariga said.
“You go to an event where over one million people are attending. They are not educated, and they don’t speak any other language. It is becoming very challenging.”
Ayariga suggested that Parliament should consider legislation to regulate Hajj operations in Ghana, noting that the current committee-based system may no longer be sufficient.
“Perhaps it is time for this house and the country to have legislation on Hajj instead of it just being a committee.”
Former Defence Minister and MP for Bimbilla, Dominic Nitiwul, also called on the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs to brief Parliament on the overall management of the 2025 Hajj.
In response, Deputy Minister Ahmed Ibrahim urged patience, indicating that a comprehensive report would be presented once the Hajj Committee, chaired by Collins Dauda, completes its work.
“Let’s exercise restraint. When a report is submitted by Collins Dauda’s committee, then we can come and brief you appropriately,” he said.
