President Nana Akufo-Addo has called on Ghana’s clergy to practice restraint with prophecies related to the upcoming December 7 elections, emphasizing the importance of peace and respect during the electoral process. Speaking through Stephen Asamoah Boateng, the Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, at the “Agent of Peace” campaign organized by the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) on Sunday, November 3, 2024, the President urged religious leaders to prioritize national unity.
Highlighting the significant influence the clergy holds, President Akufo-Addo stressed the need for decorum and warned against making statements that could provoke division. He encouraged religious leaders to help guide their congregations in fostering a harmonious atmosphere as the country heads into the crucial election period.
The President also issued a word of caution to both political parties and religious figures to avoid using inflammatory language or making premature claims of victory. He underscored the vital role of responsible communication, pointing out that divisive rhetoric could destabilize the peace Ghana has long enjoyed.
“We in Ghana have grown and must learn the lessons of having peaceful elections. We must avoid the use of provocative and abusive language in our campaigning. Let us respect the electorate and not assume that one political party has already won the election when a single ballot is yet to be cast,” President Akufo-Addo remarked.
He also pointed out that while democracy encompasses more than just elections, genuine elections are foundational to a democratic system. He called on all stakeholders to ensure their messages do not mislead voters or stir conflict.
President Akufo-Addo concluded his address with a specific appeal to the clergy, urging them to moderate members who might engage in making election prophecies that could fuel tension: “I call on all our revered members of the clergy also to put a check on those of their members who are going round and prophesying winners of an election which is yet to be held.”
The President’s call comes as Ghana approaches another significant electoral milestone, with hopes of maintaining its reputation as a stable democracy. His message serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility for peace that rests on religious, political, and community leaders alike.
