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Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate in the December 2024 election, has embarked on the Islamic pilgrimage of Umrah in Mecca.
Accompanied by his wife, Hajia Samira Bawumia, and close associates, including former Minister of Youth and Sports Mustapha Ussif, the journey marks a moment of spiritual renewal and gratitude.
The pilgrimage follows the inauguration of President John Dramani Mahama on January 7, 2025, after the former president won the election on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
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Despite his electoral loss, Dr. Bawumia has maintained a spirit of gratitude and reflection.
In a post shared on his social media platforms, Dr. Bawumia expressed the significance of the trip, saying:
“Together with Hajia Samira Bawumia and some friends, I arrived in Mecca yesterday to perform Umrah (Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca). This is to thank the Almighty Allah for His grace. We also prayed for guidance and protection for us and for our nation, Ghana.”
Dr. Bawumia, who attended President Mahama’s swearing-in ceremony, continues to engage his supporters and convey his appreciation for their backing during the election campaign.
Umrah, often referred to as the “lesser pilgrimage,” is a deeply spiritual journey that can be undertaken at any time of the year, unlike the Hajj, which has fixed dates in the Islamic calendar. While not obligatory, Umrah holds significant importance in Islam and offers spiritual rewards to those who perform it.
Key rituals of Umrah include:
Ihram: Pilgrims don simple white garments symbolising purity and equality before Allah.
Tawaf: Pilgrims circumambulate the Kaaba, Islam’s holiest site, seven times in a counter-clockwise direction.
Sa’i: They walk seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, commemorating Hagar’s search for water for her son, Ismail.
Shaving or Trimming Hair: Men shave or trim their hair, and women cut a small portion as a sign of renewal.
