The increasing influence of Vice President and NPP flagbearer, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, within the Zongo community was prominently showcased last night at Fadama, Accra, during the National Maulid, a celebration of the birth of the Prophet Muhammad organized by the National Chief Imam.
Thousands of Muslims from various regions gathered for the occasion, which was expected to feature Vice President Bawumia alongside former President Mahama and numerous local and international dignitaries.
At approximately 10:00 pm, the event’s master of ceremonies announced the anticipated arrival of several dignitaries, including the National Chief Imam, former President Mahama, and Vice President Bawumia, in that sequence.
However, former President John Mahama ultimately did not attend, despite a reserved seat for him at the high table, which left some NDC supporters visibly disappointed as they sought to appoint a representative for him on the dais.
In contrast, Vice President Bawumia arrived with a substantial delegation, and his entrance was met with great enthusiasm. As he moved through the crowd to greet attendees, a large portion of the audience erupted in cheers before he took his seat after completing the necessary arrival protocols.
The applause for Dr. Bawumia intensified when he was called upon to deliver his address, accompanied by chants proclaiming, “whether you like it or not, Bawumia will come.” Historically, the Zongo communities have been strongholds for the NDC.
However, Dr. Bawumia’s rise in the political arena has attracted numerous voters to the NPP, thereby diminishing the NDC’s influence. A rousing cheer for the NPP at a Zongo event would have been unimaginable in the past, yet last night’s Maulid reaffirmed the significant inroads Dr. Bawumia and the NPP are making within the Zongo communities.
