AR: Chairman of Muslim Peace and Reconciliation Committee welcomes CRC proposal on hometowns for Zango residents
The proposal could provide relief to many Zango residents who struggle to identify an ancestral or indigenous hometown, despite having lived in Ghana for generations.
Sheikh Mohammed Ridwan, Chairman of the Muslim Peace and Reconciliation Committee in Ghana's Ashanti Region, has expressed his approval of a proposal put forth by the Constitution Review Committee (CRC) concerning the issuance of hometown designations for Zango residents. The CRC's recommendation aims to introduce a Comprehensive Human Rights Act that would provide legal safeguards against discrimination based on one's hometown or indigeneity for Ghanaian citizens.
This proposal offers hope to Zango communities, many of whom are Fulanis, Hausas, Mossis, and other ethnic groups who have resided in the country for generations but have historically found it difficult to identify ancestral or indigenous hometowns.
Sheikh Ridwan views the proposed legislation as a significant stride towards rectifying a longstanding injustice. He emphasizes that the core demand from affected communities is equal treatment for all Ghanaian citizens, irrespective of ancestry, hometown, or ethnic background. This equality is particularly vital when accessing public services and securing important national documents like the Ghana Card and passport.
Sheikh Ridwan extends his gratitude to President John Dramani Mahama, the Cabinet, and members of the Constitution Review Committee for considering their concerns during the review process. However, he urges for prompt action to transform this proposal into enforceable legislation. Moreover, Sheikh Ridwan calls upon Parliament to swiftly consider the eventual Bill to ensure clear protection against discrimination based on hometown or indigeneity.
The Muslim leader stresses that the legislation would greatly benefit Zango communities across Ghana, including the Fulanis, Hausas, Mossis, and other groups who have contributed to the nation's development over the years. Sheikh Ridwan reiterates the communities' simple demand: equal citizenship, equal dignity, and equal protection under Ghanaian law. He restates that they are not seeking privileges but justice and equality for all citizens.
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