Parliament, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is coordinating efforts to repatriate the body of Dr. Mustapha Ahmed, a former Member of Parliament for Ayawaso East under the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
This initiative aims to facilitate a dignified burial service in accordance with Islamic traditions, as expressed by Mr. Yussif Jajah Issaka, the NDC MP for Ayawaso North, during a statement on Thursday.
Dr Ahmed had traveled to India seeking medical treatment for a back ailment but tragically passed away following a surgical procedure. His death, which occurred on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at the age of 63, has prompted efforts to ensure a proper send-off for the late MP.
Mr Issaka emphasized Parliament’s commitment to honoring Dr. Ahmed’s memory, acknowledging his significant contributions to Ghana’s political and economic landscape.
These sentiments were reiterated during a visit by Ms. Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe, Second Deputy Minority Whip, who led a delegation from the Minority Caucus to convey condolences to the bereaved family on behalf of Speaker Alban Bagbin.
Dr Ahmed served as the MP for Ayawaso East from 2001 to 2013 before being reassigned to Ayawaso North following a constituency redistricting. In addition to his political career, he was a retired military officer, a dentist, and an estate developer. Notably, he also held the position of Minister of Youth and Sports in the administration of former President John Dramani Mahama.
Dr Alhassan described his death as shocking, saying: “We don’t have a choice but to respect what the Almighty Allah wants.”
He further mentioned that the family is in communication with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to arrange for the repatriation of the body, aiming for it to arrive on either Friday, February 9, or Saturday, February 10, 2024.
Ms. Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe, Member of Parliament for Ada, also expressed her condolences and paid tribute to the late Dr. Mustapha Ahmed.
She described him as a highly esteemed figure who had made substantial contributions to both the political landscape and society at large in Ghana.
“We mourn with the family,” she said.
He was survived by a wife and three children.