The National Peace Council (NPC) has called on pastors to exercise caution regarding election-related prophecies, emphasising their potential to escalate political tensions and incite violence as this year’s elections approach.
During a dialogue session organised by the NPC in Accra, the Chairman Dr. Ernest Adu-Gyamfi, warned that prophetic utterances could negatively impact the nation’s peace and security.
“Religious pronouncements can heighten tensions among different groups, leading to human rights violations and a breakdown in social cohesion,” he stated.
Dr Adu-Gyamfi urged church leaders to promote unity and national cohesion, noting that the church serves as a symbol of unity in society.
He disclosed that the dialogue was part of the NPC’s broader efforts to foster peace in the country, highlighting that similar discussions have been held with various groups, including women and youth wings of political parties, party communicators and councils of elders.
“Our goal is to build a Ghana rooted in tolerance and peaceful coexistence,” he said.
A former Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Apostle Prof. Opoku Onyinah, also encouraged pastors to act as agents of peace. He acknowledged that election years often bring heightened tensions but stressed the importance of using their pulpits to advocate for peace.
“We must remember that our messages can be interpreted in various ways. As representatives of God, we should preach peace,” Apostle Onyinah advised.
The NPC’s initiative underscores the crucial role that religious leaders play in maintaining stability and fostering a peaceful electoral atmosphere in Ghana.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
