The Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs (MLGCRA) on Thursday, 3rd July 2025, received a working visit from the Parliamentary Select Committee on Local Government as part of the Committee’s oversight responsibilities under Order 243 of the Standing Orders of Parliament.

The engagement focused on strengthening collaboration between the Ministry and the Committee, reviewing key programmes, and identifying strategic areas for support to enhance decentralization, improve service delivery, and address emerging challenges in local governance, chieftaincy, and religious affairs.

In his remarks, the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim, underscored the importance of aligning policy direction with parliamentary oversight to promote efficiency and transparency. He announced plans by the Ministry to organise a sector-specific retreat for members of the Committee to provide a more in-depth understanding of the Ministry’s operations, structure, and institutional mandates.

The Minister emphasized that such engagements will not only improve parliamentary dialogue but also strengthen the effectiveness of both institutions in meeting the needs of citizens. He called for constructive collaboration and mutual accountability as key ingredients for sustained national development.

The Ranking Member of the Committee, Hon. Francis Asenso-Boakye, commended the Ministry for the initiative and described the visit as an opportunity to gain firsthand insight into the Ministry’s work. He stated that the Committee remains committed to offering support through informed legislation, resource advocacy, and strategic partnerships.

Members of the Committee expressed their collective commitment to working closely with the Ministry. They assured of their readiness to offer all forms of support and collaboration necessary to advance Ghana’s development agenda and promote effective governance.

In her contribution, Hon. Gizella Tetteh-Agbotui encouraged the Ministry to explore more inter-ministerial collaborations, especially in light of current governmental realignments. She stressed that cross-sectoral partnerships are crucial in delivering integrated and impactful national programmes.

The Ministry expressed appreciation for the visit and reiterated its commitment to continuous engagement with Parliament as part of its broader accountability and development agenda.

Source: Darling Maame Efua Cann & Chantal Aidoo

 (Public Relations Unit- MLGCRA)

As part of the inaugural observance of Ghana’s National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, President John Dramani Mahama joined the Muslim community at the National Mosque in Nima, where he delivered a deeply reflective message on the role of ethics, justice, and integrity in national development.

The service, held under the leadership of the National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, brought together members of government, religious leaders, and the Muslim community in solemn prayer and supplication for the nation.

In his address, President Mahama emphasized that Ghana’s progress must be underpinned by values that transcend slogans and ceremonial declarations.

    “Slogans or speeches will not shape the future of Ghana, but the values that we live, the choices that we make, and the faith that we practise,” he stated.

He challenged national institutions to rise to their constitutional duties with fairness and resolve: “Institutions must function with integrity. Justice must not be reserved for only the powerful. And public resources must benefit all of us, not a few,” he declared.

The President’s message at the Muslim Service echoed the central theme of the day: Reflect, Reset, and Renew for National Prosperity. His presence at both the Christian and Muslim services demonstrated a commitment to unity and inclusion, values that lie at the heart of Ghana’s democratic and cultural fabric.

President Mahama called on Ghanaian leaders and citizens alike to return to the path of righteousness and accountability. “Let us uphold the sacred trust placed in us, not as an obligation to the state alone, but as a spiritual duty before God and country,” he said.

The Muslim service formed part of a nationwide interfaith observance, designed to bring all religious groups into a shared space of national reflection on July 1, which also marks the commemoration of Ghana’s Republic Day which has also been declared as the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving by H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana.

In attendance were the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban S.K. Bagbin, members of the Council of State, Justices of the Supreme Court, members of the diplomatic corps, ministers of state, members of parliament, traditional authorities, and Islamic clerics from across the country.

Source: Darling Maame Efua Cann

 (Public Relations Unit- MLGCRA)

The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Ahmed Ibrahim (MP), has called on Ghanaians to embrace a renewed spirit of national responsibility grounded in God-consciousness, gratitude, and unity. He made the remarks during the Muslim session of the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, held at the Ghana National Mosque in Accra, as part of events marking Republic Day.

Welcoming dignitaries including H.E. President John Dramani Mahama, Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, Rt. Hon. Speaker of Parliament, and the National Chief Imam, the Minister expressed profound gratitude to Allah for His continued favour and peace upon Ghana. He acknowledged Republic Day not only as a political milestone but as a moment of spiritual reflection for the nation.

    “1st July 1960 marked Ghana’s full transition to republican status, a moment when our nation took complete control over its destiny. It was a moment of both political emancipation and spiritual responsibility,” he stated.

Quoting Surah Ibrahim (14:7) “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you in favour …” Hon. Ibrahim underscored the importance of national gratitude, linking sustained peace and progress to a collective posture of humility and thankfulness before God.

The Minister emphasized that nation-building is not solely a political pursuit but a moral and spiritual obligation. Citing the Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad) “Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you is responsible for his flock” he reminded both leaders and citizens of their duty to uphold justice, compassion, and service to the nation.

    “Our leaders and citizens alike bear responsibility in building a nation rooted in Taqwa, truth, and integrity. As the Ministry responsible for Religious Affairs, we remain committed to deeper engagement with the Muslim Ummah to promote development through faith-inspired action,” he noted.

Referencing Surah Al-Ra’d (13:11) “Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves” Hon. Ibrahim called for internal reflection and moral renewal at both personal and institutional levels. He encouraged Ghanaians to reject division and corruption and embrace unity, equity, and national purpose.

He concluded by expressing appreciation to the Planning Committee, Muslim leaders, women and youth groups, and all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the event.

    “Let us commit to building a Republic that reflects the values of our faith, honesty, accountability, humility, and service to humanity. May Allah bless our homeland Ghana, and make her great, united, and prosperous.”

Source: Darling Maame Efua Cann

 (Public Relations Unit- MLGCRA)