Ghana is gearing up for its eighth general elections since the return of democracy in 1992. Experts expect a close contest between the incumbent President Nana Akufo-Addo and his main rival, former President John Mahama, in the polls scheduled for December 7.
As the political temperature rises, some religious leaders have taken a stand to promote peace and unity among the electorate. One of them is Evangelist Lawrence Tetteh, the founder and president of the Worldwide Miracle Outreach, a Christian ministry based in Accra.
Praying for A Peaceful and Transparent Election
On New Year’s Eve, Tetteh organized a national prayer rally at the Old Obra Spot in Accra, where he gathered thousands of people from different faiths and backgrounds to pray for a peaceful and transparent election.
According to a report by Daily Graphic, he also shared free food with the crowd and the surrounding communities, as a gesture of love and generosity.
Tetteh said he was motivated by his passion for Ghana and his desire to see the country prosper. He said he had witnessed the devastating effects of electoral violence in other African countries, such as Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Ivory Coast, and did not want Ghana to go through the same ordeal.
“We should remember that a lot is on us, it is what we say that our followers listen to so we should be mindful of the way we speak and make sure we bring the nation together,” he said.
Avoiding Partisan Politics and Divisive Statements
Tetteh also admonished his fellow clergy to avoid partisan politics and avoid making sensitive and selfish statements that could inflame tensions or cause division among the people.
He said religious leaders should strive to be peacemakers and role models, and not to impress or favor any political party.
“We are not supposed to impress politicians, we are supposed to do the will of God, if we can do that in honesty and also with diligence then God will bless us beyond measure,” he said.
Appealing to The Politicians and The Electoral Commission
Tetteh also appealed to the politicians and the electoral commission to play their roles in ensuring a free, fair, and credible election.
He said politics is not war, and democracy is not about insults or intimidation. He said the politicians should respect each other and the will of the people, and accept the outcome of the election.
Tetteh also called on the electoral commission to be transparent and impartial in conducting the election and to address any concerns or complaints that may arise.
He said the election is not about the candidates or the parties but about the future of Ghana and its democracy.
Tetteh ended his prayer rally with a message of hope and optimism for Ghana. He said he believed that God had a good plan and purpose for the country and that Ghana would remain peaceful and prosperous no matter who won the election.
He said he was confident that Ghana will continue to be a shining example of democracy and development in Africa and the world.
Tetteh encouraged the people to trust in God pray for the nation, and to exercise their civic duty, and vote peacefully on December 7.
