Graphic National Development Series: Catholic bishops call for sustenance of democratic governance

The Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference (GCBC) has said sustaining a civic and democratic governance system in the country requires the collective effort of all stakeholders. 

It, therefore, urged citizens not to only take an active interest in the governance of the nation but also to participate in the democratic process by demanding transparency and accountability from leaders.

“We must acknowledge that democratic deficits and governance challenges persist in many countries, and Ghana is no exception. 

“It is, therefore, imperative that we work together to address those challenges, promote civic education and foster a culture of accountability and transparency,” the President of the GCBC, Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, said in a message read on his behalf at the Graphic National Development Series (GNDS) at the British Council Hall in Accra last Wednesday.

It was read by the Secretary-General of the GCBC, Very Rev. Fr Clement Kwasi Adjei.

Event

The event, which was the fourth in the series, was on the theme: “Sustaining civic & democratic governance system for development, mandate of all  citizens.”

Ato Afful (2nd from left), MD, GCGL, in a chat with Prof. Baffour Agyeman Duah (right) and Dr Emmanuel Akwetey (2nd from right) after the forum. With them is Gabriel Bosompem, member of the NMC

The GNDS is a platform offered by the nation’s foremost media organisation, Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL), to discuss issues of national interest and also propose solutions for accelerated development.

It focuses on strategic issues of national character, ultimately influencing policy and mindsets of the people.

Role of NCCE

Most Rev. Gyamfi said the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) played a vital role in promoting civic education and awareness among citizens.

Dr Emmanuel Akwetey (left), Executive Director of the Institute for Democratic Governance, addressing participants in the forum. Pictures: EDNA SALVO KOTEY

“However, it is essential we recognise that sustaining civic and democratic governance systems requires a collective effort from all stakeholders, including religious organisations, civil society organisations, traditional leaders and government institutions.  

“We must also recognise that our individual actions no matter how small, contribute to the larger narrative of our nation's development,” he said.

The president of GCBC charged the country’s leaders to prioritise the needs of the most vulnerable and marginalised in society.

As a nation, Most Rev. Gyamfi said: “We must work together to address the challenges of poverty, inequality and injustice”.

As people of faith, he said the church believed that sustaining civic and democratic governance systems was not only a civic duty but also a moral imperative.

“We must work together to build a more just, equitable and peaceful society where every citizen can thrive and reach their full potential. No one must be left behind,” he added.

Commendation

Most Rev. Gyamfi commended the Graphic Communications Group Ltd for its foresight in organising the programme aimed at deepening democracy in the country for accelerated development.

“As a nation, we find ourselves at a critical juncture in our democratic journey. The Catholic Church through its social doctrine, emphasises the importance of promoting the dignity of the human being through the principles of common good, participation, solidarity, justice and peace,” he said.

Most Rev. Gyamfi further said that the church was committed to supporting efforts that fostered a culture of accountability, transparency and civic engagement for growth.

He said the church also recognised the inherent dignity and worth of every human person and, for that matter, anybody created in the image and likeness of God.

Therefore, we believe that every citizen has a fundamental right to participate in the democratic process and to hold their leaders accountable.