CJ Baffoe-Bonnie urges faith-driven leadership

The Chief Justice of Ghana, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie, has called for leadership grounded in faith, discipline, and accountability, stressing that true authority is demonstrated not in the exercise of power, but in the restraint of it.

He made these remarks as Guest Speaker at the Annual Regional Council Meeting 2026 of Assemblies of God, Ghana – Greater Accra East, held at the Aggar Resort Centre, Shai Hills.

Delivering a keynote address to a gathering of pastors and church leaders, the Chief Justice noted that leadership is ultimately tested in moments of difficulty, particularly when competing interests demand tough decisions.

He emphasized that while human intellect and legal frameworks are important, they are insufficient on their own without moral conviction and spiritual guidance.

“Character is tested in the ability to restrain power, even when one has the right to fully exercise it,” he stated, adding that Ghana’s founding principles were deeply rooted in faith and a recognition of divine authority.

The Chief Justice further underscored the need for accountability in public service and leadership, noting that leaders must answer not only to institutions but also to higher moral and spiritual standards.

In his address, the General Superintendent of Assemblies of God Ghana, Rev Dr Stephen Yenusom Wengam, challenged Christians to embrace what he described as “audacious faith,” urging believers to break away from cultural norms that discourage ambition and bold vision.

According to him, many people wrongly equate ambition with pride, a mindset he said limits growth and impact.

“We must encourage our young people to dream big and pursue great things, trusting God beyond human limitations,” he said.

Rev Dr Wengam explained that the Church’s 2026 theme, “The Faith of Our Fathers,” seeks to reconnect believers to the foundational principles of early Christianity.

He noted that the theme is anchored on two key pillars: demonstrating the passionate, unwavering faith of the early apostles and safeguarding sound biblical doctrine.

Referencing Acts Chapter 2, he highlighted the importance of doctrinal consistency, warning against the rise of distorted teachings, particularly on digital platforms.

He reaffirmed that Assemblies of God Ghana remains committed to preserving its legacy as a leading Pentecostal church known for sound doctrine.

He also announced that Ghana will host the World Congress of the global Assemblies of God Fellowship in October 2026—the first time the event will be held on African soil.

The global gathering, he said, is expected to attract thousands of participants, boost the economy, and spark a nationwide spiritual revival.

Meanwhile, the Greater Accra East Regional Superintendent, Rev Andrews N Awintia, described the council meeting as a vital accountability platform where church leaders render accounts of their stewardship to both God and the congregation.

He explained that the meeting brings together pastors representing local assemblies to review activities, assess leadership performance, and discuss the way forward for the Church.

Presenting a report on his four-year tenure, Rev Awintia outlined several achievements, including the construction of legacy temple projects across the region, financial support to deprived and border churches exceeding GH₵3 million, and welfare interventions for retired ministers.

He added that the region had facilitated the provision of motorbikes to pastors in remote areas to aid evangelism and also drilled boreholes to provide potable water to underserved communities.

“This council is not just a meeting — it is an accountability forum where leaders explain how they have utilized the mandate entrusted to them,” he said, noting that members are given the opportunity to question decisions and demand transparency.

The Annual Regional Council Meeting serves as one of the most important gatherings on the church’s calendar, bringing together clergy and leadership to deliberate on governance, spiritual direction, and strategic growth.

This year’s event placed strong emphasis on restoring foundational Christian values, strengthening accountability systems, and inspiring believers to pursue a deeper, more resilient faith in an increasingly complex world.