Former Member of Parliament for the Sagnarigu Constituency, Alhaji Alhassan Bashir Alhassan Fuseini, has lauded the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, for his swift intervention in facilitating passport acquisition for Ghanaian pilgrims embarking on the 2025 Hajj.

Speaking on Pan African TV’s "Hello Zongo" on July 20, 2025, during a post-Hajj 2025 discussion, Fuseini recounted how Ablakwa’s efforts enabled first-time pilgrims to obtain their passports in record time, ensuring their participation in the sacred journey.

“In previous Hajj pilgrimages, some people had to abandon the cause because of the cumbersome process involved in getting a new passport,” Fuseini explained.

He contrasted past challenges with the recent experience, adding:

“In the past, we could go and come from Mecca before people received their passports. However, he (Ablakwa) facilitated the process, and in two days, people had their passports! I cannot thank him enough for ensuring his officials work effectively.”

Fuseini also highlighted the financial aspect of the intervention.

He noted that, while expedited passport processing typically comes with higher charges, Hajj pilgrims paid only the standard GH¢400 and still received their passports within an exceptionally short timeframe.

Offering a general assessment of the 2025 Hajj, Fuseini commended the Hajj Board and task force for their high level of competence throughout the process.

While acknowledging that no operation is ever flawless, he said their performance was commendable.

VPO/MA

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