Clergy, traditional leaders must be apolitical
Religious and traditional leaders occupy a position of influence because of their role and impact on society.
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They are revered mainly due to the leadership they provide as well as the good moral and ethical values they uphold. They are also the arbiter when it comes to conflict resolutions and, therefore, they are always expected to be neutral and apolitical.
The use of the pulpit by some religious leaders to endorse candidates or political parties in elections is therefore quite disturbing. It is more prevalent when political parties are electing candidates to represent them in national elections and even worse in the run-up to the national elections during which period some men and women of God even prophesy about the candidate or political party that will win the elections.
The problem is not only limited to some of our clergymen and women but to some of our traditional leaders who end up embarrassing themselves when their proclaimed candidates lose the elections and seek to use the backdoor to make amends.
The Daily Graphic believes that the Church and the chieftaincy institution must be revered and kept in high esteem so that they can play much more advocacy, admonishing peace and cohesion in the country. It then becomes disturbing when these leaders turn out in political colours.
This is why we agree with the Chairperson of the Asante Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG), Rev. Benson Osafo Kantankah, that the Church should not use the pulpit to endorse or support any candidate or political party before, during and after the 2024 presidential and parliamentary elections.
Such a call, as we stated earlier, should not only be limited to the clergy but our traditional authorities as well, to ensure their neutrality when commenting on or discussing national issues. That way, Ghanaians and the powers that be will take them seriously since they have earned their respect.
In our current state of polarisation, we need voices that promote oneness and a sense of purpose and direction for peace and tranquillity to prevail at all times.
The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, is a typical example of a ruler who has maintained a dignified apolitical stance which has earned him the respect of all. He says it as it is whether one is in power or in opposition. Some religious bodies such as the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference and the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council speak as one body through communiques on national issues.
We need voices that will speak truth to power.
The country is already grappling with issues of illegal mining, the debate on LGBTQ+, bribery and corruption and economic malaise.
The Daily Graphic expects the Church and traditional authorities to do a thorough reflection on these matters and proffer solutions no matter how bitter they might be to Ghanaians. We all have a stake in addressing the challenges confronting the country that require a collective and holistic approach to solve.
As Rev. Kantankah stated: “The church as a stakeholder has a major role to play; this is an opportune time for Christians to do something concrete about our physical and spiritual environment.”
After all, a good number of health and educational facilities were set up by churches which render good services to the people, especially those in deprived areas.
Being neutral also helps feuding factions to trust them to resolve problems instead of being seen as players, especially, those who soil themselves with partisanship.
The Daily Graphic believes that if our clergy and our traditional leaders distant themselves from political party issues, they can be relied upon to mediate on the differences.
However, such a role they play would be greatly appreciated if they avoid partisan commentary or declaration of support for one candidate or political party.
