A solemn funeral procession marked the Islamic burial of Dr. Mustapha Ahmed, former Minister of Youth and Sports, on Sunday at the Military Cemetery in Accra. He was 63.
The burial service featured prayers from Muslim scholars of the Ghana Armed Forces, both current and retired.
It followed earlier “Janaiza” prayers led by the National Chief Imam at the National Mosque. There, dignitaries paid final respects as the late minister’s mortal remains lay in state before being carried to the cemetery.
Senior government officials, members of his NDC party, and military officials gathered at the cemetery to bid farewell to the former army officer, dentist, minister of state, and long-serving MP, whose burial services were well executed in accordance with military principles amid Islamic traditions.
His burial provided a sombre yet commemorative end to a remarkable life of service to Ghana. Dr. Ahmed dedicated over four decades as an army officer, dentist, 16-year Member of Parliament, government minister, and community leader.
In lieu of a 21-gun salute, inspecting officers laid wreaths on his grave in tribute to his military service.
Dr. Ahmed passed away on February 8 in India, where he was receiving treatment. He is survived by his wife and three children. His career as a soldier, legislator, and Minister of State made full military honours a fitting tribute.
In his life, marked by many successful stories, he equally dedicated his time to serving as the Bal Naa (Prime Minister) of his Bissa people.
Pallbearers carried his flag-draped casket in a mood both mournful and celebratory, honouring the full life of this respected statesman, dentist, soldier, and champion of youth development.
And finally, I had to leave the body, completely covered in white cloth, in the hands of family and Muslim leaders for the lowering into the grave, as Islam demands.
His burial marked the end of a life richly lived in service to family and country.
Present at the burial services were some NDC stalwarts like current MP for Aywaso North Hon. Yussif Jajah, Former MP for Kumbugu, Ras Mubarak, former MP Tamale Central Inusah Fusseini, Party executive; and the former Chairman of Accra Hearts of Oak Harry Zakkour.
Others were the owner of Despite Company Ltd Osei-Kwame Despite, and former Black Star player and Bayern Munich legend, Mr Samuel Osei Kuffour.
Meanwhile, a book of condolences has been opened in honour of the late Bal Naa at his flower pot residence in Accra.