Tribalism, Religious Extremism Threaten Ghana's Progress - Mahama
Accra, Ghana - 1 July, 2025 - Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has called for national unity, warning that tribalism, religious extremism, and political divisions threaten the country's cohesion and progress.
Speaking on Tuesday, July 1, at the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, Mahama emphasized the need for citizens to foster togetherness and mutual respect.
According to Mahama, the voices of division must be resisted, and Ghanaians should use words and actions that promote peace, compassion, and mutual respect.
He encouraged the nation to build bridges, not barriers, and to pursue a shared identity and destiny.
“Let us remain vigilant against the voices of tribalism, the voices of religious extremism and against the poison of political division. These are the seeds of division that we must never let take root in our precious nation, Ghana,” he declared.
''We must speak a language of peace, compassion, and mutual respect. We must build bridges, not barriers, for we are one people sharing one land and pursuing one identity and destiny.”
The President also reflected on leadership and accountability, stressing that public office is a sacred responsibility, not a privilege for personal enrichment.
He emphasized the importance of holding those in authority accountable to the highest standards of integrity and humility.
Mahama reaffirmed his commitment to equality before the law, stating that even the office of the President is not above the law.
“We must hold those in authority, including myself, accountable to the highest standards of integrity and humility. Public office is not a privilege for personal gain; it is a sacred trust bestowed by the people and a responsibility to serve all, especially the most vulnerable,” he said.
Even the office of the President, which by the grace of God I now hold, is not above the law.”
The National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving brought together religious leaders, politicians, and citizens from all walks of life, united in intercession for peace, integrity, and national renewal.
Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson, a Ghanaian Catholic prelate who has served as chancellor of the Pontifical Academies of Sciences since 2022, was present at the ceremony and delivered the sermon of the day.
Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson
The event highlights the ongoing efforts to promote national unity and reconciliation in Ghana. As the country continues to navigate its development path, President Mahama's call for unity and accountability is seen as a crucial step towards building a more cohesive and prosperous society.
Ghana has a history of peaceful transitions of power, and President Mahama's message is seen as a call to maintain this stability and promote a culture of respect and tolerance. The international community has praised Ghana for its democratic progress, and the country's leadership is expected to play a key role in promoting regional stability and cooperation.
Source: Lead News Online
