Ho Zongo youth demand permanent resolution to Volta Regional Chief Imam impasse

Youth in the Ho Zongo community of Ghana's Volta Region are demanding a permanent resolution to the ongoing dispute over the Volta Regional Chief Imam position and rejecting the "quick-fix" approach to the matter. Concerned about alleged political meddling, they pleaded with political figures to abstain from involvement, which has led to unrest among community members.

The Zongo Youth spokesperson, Abdul Razak Abubakar, appealed to the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, the Volta Regional Security Council, and other pertinent bodies to work towards resolving the Chief Imam impasse. He cautioned that the governing National Democratic Congress must avoid favoring one side in the impasse or fail to restore peace in the Ho Zongo community.

"The youth have the right to express their political displeasure through peaceful and lawful democratic actions, such as voting. No political party should assume communities' support while unresolved concerns persist," stated Mr. Abubakar. The impasse was marked by a violent incident in December 2025, which left numerous believers injured after they gathered at the Central Mosque for the Friday congregational prayer (Salat al-Jumu'ah).

The victims are still awaiting justice as the perpetrators have not been prosecuted. To address this, he called on the Interior Ministry to reignite investigations into the shooting and ensure those found responsible face consequences to quell grieving families. "We also urge the Minister of the Interior to prioritize the reported shooting incident, conduct a comprehensive investigation, and help curb additional violence.

The well-being of worshippers and residents must be prioritized," he emphasized. Closure of mosque Following the shooting, the mosque was closed to the public to prevent further clashes, compelling believers to pray inside. However, it was briefly reopened for the National Chief Imam, His Eminence Sheikh Dr Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, along with the Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, to conduct some prayers two weeks ago.

The mosque remains locked to worshippers. Mr. Abubakar warned that the Zongo youth would continue staging demonstrations until a mutually agreeable solution to the Volta Regional Chief Imam impasse is found and the Ho Central Mosque is reinstated for its intended use. "The reopening of the mosque must be achieved through lawful coordination with relevant authorities, ensuring the safety of worshippers and the wider community.

We anticipate the Minister to act swiftly and exhibit genuine leadership before tensions intensify further," he concluded.