The Ghanaian Minaret

Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has officially informed the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Usman Nuhu Sharubutu, of his inability to attend the Mawlid – birthday celebration of the holy prophet, which is being organised by the Chief Imam of Ghana this Saturday evening.

The president is expected to depart from Accra this evening for New York in the United States as he attends the United Nations (UN) General Assembly meeting.

He made this known when he visited the Chief Imam on Saturday morning to ask for prayers as he embarks on his journey.

The president was accompanied by some government officials that included Haruna Halidu, newly appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Zongo Development Fund; Baba Jamal Ahmed, High Commissioner of Ghana to Nigeria; Tanko Abdul Rauf, the Chairman of the Hajj Board; and other National Democratic Congress party executives.

On Friday, President Mahama through a delegation had made a presentation of items to support the occasion.

During his visit on Saturday, a donation of GH¢10,000 each was made to the caterers and entourage of the Chief Imam.

“I want to assure him that some of our ministers and big party executives will be at the Mawlid to represent me,” he said.

The national chief Imam for his part prayed for Allah’s protection and guidance for the president.

He also prayed that Allah would elevate him and grant him good health as well as the wisdom to rule the country successfully.