Mixing religion with politics could lead to tension, division – GPCC warns political parties

The Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) has called on political parties to refrain from turning the upcoming 2024 general election into a religious contest.

In a statement released by its National Executive Council (NEC), the GPCC expressed concern over the growing trend of religiously charged campaign messages being promoted on political platforms and in religious settings.

The council highlighted the fact that, for the first time in Ghana’s history, the Presidential Candidates of the two major political parties—the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP)—come from different faiths: Christian and Muslim, respectively.

The GPCC warned that mixing religion with politics could lead to tension and division in what is expected to be a highly competitive election.

It cited examples from other West African countries where religious and ethnic incitement has caused significant unrest and conflict.

To prevent such issues, the GPCC has adopted a firm stance, instructing its regional councils across the country to avoid promoting the election as a contest between Christian and Muslim candidates.

The council represents over 300 member churches and organizations with an estimated 10 million members—about a third of Ghana’s population.

As a Christian ecumenical body, the GPCC emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence and inclusivity, and ensuring that political campaigns focus on policies that benefit all citizens, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or social class.

The council urged political parties to prioritize addressing issues such as social equity, transparency, and accountability in governance.

The GPCC also condemned attempts by some Parliamentary Candidates and religious leaders to encourage voters to choose candidates based on religious lines, labelling such actions as divisive and unhelpful.

It reminded Ghanaians that none of the Presidential Candidates is running on a religious platform and that political campaigns should be centred on policies aimed at improving the lives of citizens.

The council encouraged all eligible voters to exercise their civic duty in the upcoming election, guided by their conscience and values.

It called for unity in building a future that reflects shared values of respect, integrity, and progress for both present and future generations.

In conclusion, the GPCC urged all stakeholders to focus on creating an inclusive and equitable society and to work together for the common good of the nation.