A Momentous Handing Over: Transition of Leadership in Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Ghana

On November 9, 2024, the National Headquarters of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Ghana in Accra became the venue for a historic and spiritually charged event—the handing-over ceremony for the leadership of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya Ghana (MKA). This event was not merely a change in leadership; it marked a renewal of commitment, unity, and purpose among members of the Majlis. Graced by the presence of national and regional dignitaries, the day was imbued with an atmosphere of gratitude, reflection, and optimism for the future.

An Auspicious Beginning

The program commenced with a solemn recitation of the Holy Qur’an by Hafiz Aayatur-Rahman, a moment that set a spiritual tone for the occasion and reminded attendees of the divine essence underpinning the gathering. This was followed by a melodious and thought-provoking poem rendered by Muallim Saeed Gafur, the Muhtamim Tarbiyat-Rishtanata, which eloquently captured the ethos of sacrifice and service that defines the Majlis. The outgoing Sadr, Esq. Haneef Bipuah Sahib, led the Khuddam pledge, an act of recommitment for all present. The pledge served as a vivid reminder of their responsibility to serve the Jama’at with unwavering loyalty and devotion, reinforcing the ideals of obedience and selflessness central to Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya.

Reflections from the Outgoing Sadr

He highlighted the unwavering support he received from the Ameer and Missionary-in-Charge, his Naibeen, and the national members, whose dedication made his leadership impactful. With a touch of humour and sincerity, he acknowledged Maulvi Cheema’s consistent guidance, even dubbing him the “electoral commissioner” who struck a delicate balance between firmness and fairness.

Special recognition was given to the former Sadr, Nasir Ahmad Bonsu, whose sacrifices set a high standard of leadership. “The donation of his car is an unparalleled example of his spirit of sacrifice. It’s a legacy that speaks to his deep commitment to the Majlis,” he said, urging all Khuddam to emulate such exemplary dedication. The outgoing Sadr also took a moment to commend individuals like Engineer Ibrahim Arkoh, Senior Wahab Adusei, and Mustafa Amissah for their unique contributions to the Majlis. Reflecting on the encouragement and constructive feedback he received, he remarked, “These qualities, though seemingly trivial, reinforce and console leaders through challenges. They remind us of the broader impact of our service.”

In his closing remarks, he urged the Khuddam to rally behind the new Sadr, emphasizing the weight of the responsibility and the need for collective prayers. “The position of Sadr is one of the most challenging in the Jama’at. It demands balance, wisdom, and resilience. Let us support him with our prayers and cooperation to ensure his success,” he concluded.

The New Sadr’s Vision and Call to Action

Mr. Ahmed Kobina Benyarko, the newly appointed Sadr, humbled by the occasion, began his speech by attributing his ascension to the miraculous hand of Allah. With deep humility, he confessed, “When I reflect on the events leading to today, I ask myself: Am I the most eloquent? The most righteous? The most scholarly? Certainly not. Yet, Allah, in His boundless mercy, has brought me here. This is a testament to His enduring support for this Jama’at.”

He acknowledged the formidable task ahead, describing it as a battle not with other faiths but against the pervasive influence of materialism. Drawing from the wisdom of his predecessor, Nasir Ahmad Bonsu, he stressed the importance of self-introspection and fostering brotherhood among Khuddam. “There is no way we can achieve meaningful Tarbiyyat without a personal code of brotherhood,” he noted.

While celebrating the high turnout at the last Ijtema’a, he acknowledged the challenges of reaching the broader Tajneed. He urged all present to unite in the mission, emphasizing, “Though the task ahead is enormous, with your prayers and support, we can strive for what pleases Allah.” The incoming Sadr expressed his gratitude for the guidance of two former Sadran, likening them to the Adhan and Iqamah in his ears, steering him towards the right path. He ended his speech with a heartfelt plea: “Support me as you supported my predecessors. Together, let us uphold the banner of this Jama’at and fulfil our duties to Allah.”

Guidance from Esteemed Guests

The handing-over ceremony was graced by esteemed guests, whose guidance provided both spiritual inspiration and practical wisdom for the gathered Khuddam. Among them were Alhaj Anderson Naib II and Justice Saeed Kweku Gyan Naib Ameer III, whose heartfelt speeches served as a call to action for the members to recommit themselves to the principles of service, spirituality, and self-improvement.

Alhaj Anderson reminded the attendees that serving the Jama’at is not merely a privilege but an extraordinary opportunity granted by Allah. He emphasized the sacred responsibility that comes with holding any office within the Jama’at, stressing that “Leadership is not about personal gain or recognition but about selfless service for the pleasure of Allah.” He urged members to adopt a spirit of humility and gratitude in their roles, emphasizing that every task, no matter how small, is significant in the grand scheme of Allah's work.

Justice Saeed Kweku Gyan Naib Ameer III centered his speech on the importance of balancing secular and spiritual education. He urged the Khuddam to excel in their academic and professional pursuits while maintaining a firm connection to their faith. “The Jama’at thrives when its members are equipped with the knowledge and skills to lead in both the material and spiritual worlds,” he noted. Justice Gyan further encouraged the members to internalize the Khuddam pledge, which calls for devotion to faith, nation, and humanity.

Both speakers reiterated the importance of upholding the ten conditions of Bai’at, the foundational pledge that binds every Ahmadi Muslim to a life of righteousness and devotion. They reminded the audience that these tenets are not merely theoretical but should guide every action, decision, and interaction.

Justice Gyan, in particular, highlighted how the principles of Bai’at provide a moral compass in an increasingly materialistic world. “In a time when values are constantly challenged, the ten conditions of Bai’at serve as a shield, ensuring we remain steadfast in our faith and principles,” he said.

Symbolic Transition of Leadership

The ceremony’s most profound moment came with the symbolic handing over of key items by the outgoing Sadr to his successor. This simple yet deeply significant act marked the culmination of the event, embodying both the weight of responsibility and the optimism of renewal. As the outgoing Sadr entrusted the symbols of leadership to his successor, the gathered Khuddam bore witness to a tradition steeped in humility, faith, and dedication to service.

This exchange was more than a formality; it represented the unbroken chain of commitment and sacrifice that has been the cornerstone of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya's legacy. It symbolized the seamless continuation of a mission to foster spiritual growth, instill discipline, and serve humanity—a mission that each generation of leaders inherits and passes forward.

A Spiritual Finale

The program reached its poignant conclusion with a heartfelt congregational prayer led by Maulvi Omar Farouk Yahya. The solemnity of the moment was palpable as Khuddam from across Ghana raised their hands in unison, beseeching Allah for His guidance, strength, and blessings. The prayer encapsulated the hopes of the gathering: that the new leadership would steer the Majlis with wisdom and humility and that all Khuddam would find the strength to uphold the tenets of their faith and the responsibilities of their pledge.

In his supplication, Maulvi Omar Farouk Yahya sought divine assistance for the incoming Sadr and his team, asking Allah to enable them to fulfill their duties with excellence and sincerity. He also prayed for the spiritual and material growth of the Majlis, invoking blessings upon every member to excel in their service to faith, nation, and humanity. The prayer resonated deeply, as it symbolized the unity of purpose and shared mission that binds every member of Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya.

This historic day will be remembered not merely as a moment of transition but as a reaffirmation of the values that define Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya—faith, sacrifice, and service to humanity. It stood as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Jama’at, where leadership is both a privilege