Bishop Gideon Yoofi Titi-Ofei, a prominent religious leader and head of the Pleasant Place Church, has penned an open letter to Ghana’s President-elect, John Dramani Mahama, offering counsel as he prepares to return to the presidency. The central theme of the Bishop’s message is a call for humility, unity, and a focus on national development, urging Mr. Mahama to transcend partisan politics and prioritize the well-being of the nation. He emphasizes that true leadership lies in building upon the progress of previous administrations, rather than seeking to discredit or dismantle their achievements for political gain.
Bishop Titi-Ofei cautions Mr. Mahama against the common political practice of demonizing predecessors. He stresses that acknowledging the successes of the outgoing Akufo-Addo administration and building on those foundations is crucial for the nation’s advancement. Correcting past mistakes, the Bishop advises, should be undertaken with humility and a spirit of service, recognizing that leadership is not a competitive sport but a responsibility to the people. He warns against rewriting history to fit partisan narratives, arguing that such actions only deepen divisions within the country. Instead, Mr. Mahama is urged to foster unity and healing through actions that reflect integrity and fairness, thereby building trust among the citizenry.
The Bishop underscores the importance of continuity in governance, particularly regarding ongoing projects. He advises the President-elect to complete projects initiated by his predecessor, provided they align with national interests. This approach, he explains, signifies maturity and humility, demonstrating a commitment to the nation’s progress rather than political point-scoring. By continuing beneficial projects, the new administration can avoid wasteful duplication of efforts and ensure resources are used efficiently for the betterment of Ghana. This pragmatic approach to governance prioritizes long-term national development over short-term political gains.
Furthermore, Bishop Titi-Ofei emphasizes the critical role of competent and visionary leadership in achieving national progress. He advises Mr. Mahama to surround himself with individuals who prioritize the nation’s welfare above personal gain, competence over loyalty, and vision over political expediency. He explicitly warns against the practice of “jobs for the boys,” urging the incoming president to select appointees based on their merit and ability to contribute effectively to national development. Building a strong and effective team is crucial for implementing the necessary policies and programs to achieve the nation’s goals.
The Bishop’s counsel highlights the importance of statesmanship and the need for leaders to rise above partisan politics. He argues that genuine leadership involves recognizing the contributions of all stakeholders, regardless of their political affiliation, and working collaboratively to build a better future for the nation. He calls on Mr. Mahama to embrace this principle and demonstrate a commitment to unity, progress, and the common good of Ghana. By prioritizing these values, the new administration can foster a climate of cooperation and build a more inclusive and prosperous future for all citizens.
In concluding his open letter, Bishop Titi-Ofei reiterates his belief in Mr. Mahama’s potential to lead Ghana towards progress and prosperity. He emphasizes that by embracing humility, unity, and a focus on national development, the incoming president can effectively address the challenges facing the nation and leave a lasting legacy of positive change. The Bishop’s message serves as a timely reminder of the responsibilities of leadership and the importance of prioritizing the needs of the people above political considerations. He encourages Mr. Mahama to seize this opportunity to unite the nation and lead Ghana towards a brighter future.
