President Nana Akufo-Addo has called on the clergy to discourage members from making prophecies about the outcome of Ghana’s upcoming December 7 general elections, urging restraint and respect during the election season.
The president’s message was delivered by the Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, at the “Agent of Peace” campaign, an event organized by the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) on Sunday, November 3, 2024. Akufo-Addo emphasized the need for a respectful and orderly approach as the nation heads to the polls, warning against statements that could inflame tensions or mislead the public.
In his address, President Akufo-Addo urged political leaders and religious figures to avoid divisive language and premature claims of victory. He highlighted Ghana’s achievements as a democratic nation, stressing that democracy is rooted not only in elections but also in fostering unity and respect throughout the process. “Democracy requires more than just elections, but elections are essential to maintaining democratic legitimacy and ensuring a peaceful transfer of power,” he noted.
The president also called for an end to provocative language in political campaigns, reminding politicians of the importance of respecting voters and avoiding assumptions about election outcomes. “No political party should claim victory before even a single ballot has been cast,” he cautioned.
Finally, Akufo-Addo appealed directly to the clergy, asking them to help curb predictions about election results. “I urge our revered clergy members to restrain those within their ranks who are making election prophecies,” he said. “Let us all work to ensure a peaceful, respectful, and credible election process.”
With Ghana’s election approaching, the president’s message underscored the importance of unity and responsible conduct across all sectors, as citizens prepare to exercise their democratic right to vote.
