By King Amoah.
In a heartfelt appeal to Ghanaians, Nana Boakye Yiadom Atonsa II, the chief of Denanse and the Atenehene of the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has urged the nation’s pastors to engage in fervent prayers as the country approaches the crucial general elections on December 7.
His call comes at a time when the political climate is charged, marked by campaign attacks and contentious rhetoric from various political factions.
In a recent interview, Nana Atonsa emphasized the pivotal role that spiritual leaders can play in ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
He expressed his concerns over the rising tensions and urged pastors to seek divine intervention to calm the hearts and minds of political leaders.
“This is a crucial moment,” he explained, “where pastors should rise up to their mandate and pray to God to promote unity and peaceful coexistence among all Ghanaians.”
Nana Atonsa did not shy away from addressing a growing concern within the religious community.
He lamented that many pastors have strayed from their spiritual mission, allowing politics to infiltrate their sermons. “Instead of remaining focused on their calling, many have turned themselves into politicians, using the pulpit to sway their congregations towards specific political parties,” he remarked.
He characterized this behavior as both undemocratic and counterproductive.
Additionally, he highlighted the pressing national issues Ghana faces, such as illegal mining, known colloquially as “galamsey,” which has led to significant environmental degradation and pollution of water bodies.
Nana Atonsa accused some pastors of turning a blind eye to these critical challenges, suggesting that their silence indicates a potential conflict of interest. “The focus should be on elevating the moral and ethical standards of society, rather than pursuing material gains,” he stressed.
In light of these issues, Nana Atonsa’s message served not only as a call to action for pastors but a reminder of the moral obligation they carry.
He advised them to reflect on the importance and nobility of their vocation, encouraging them to prioritize prayers that can lead to societal transformation over personal ambitions.
