On October 1, 2024, former President John Mahama addressed clergy members at DE ICON in East Legon, expressing his gratitude for their unwavering support and guidance in the face of Ghana’s ongoing challenges. He emphasized the precarious position Ghana finds itself in, particularly regarding the faith of the youth in the nation’s democratic governance, which is waning. According to a recent Afrobarometer survey, a significant majority of Ghanaians believe the country is heading in the wrong direction, underscoring an urgent need for a transformative reset in governance, economic models, and societal values. Mahama highlighted that current leadership has displayed a troubling level of arrogance and incompetence, leading Ghana into an unprecedented economic and debt crisis, with many citizens facing poverty and a diminishing future.
He lamented the systematic mismanagement of state resources and the rampant corruption and nepotism that have defined recent governance. Mahama pointed to the dire economic situation characterized by soaring living costs, increasing unemployment, and the erosion of savings and pensions due to burdensome debt policies. He urged for a critical assessment of the national trajectory, stressing that genuine progress requires compassionate and accountable leadership, which the National Democratic Congress (NDC) aims to provide in the forthcoming December elections. By showcasing a leadership model that prioritizes honesty and investment in resources for the betterment of all, Mahama sought to inspire hope in Ghanaians in desperate need of change.
Drawing parallels with biblical narratives, Mahama appealed for prayer and collaboration from the clergy to navigate the nation’s crisis, pointing to the story of Joseph in Egypt as an example of divine intervention during famine and despair. He urged the clergy to assume their prophetic roles in guiding the nation towards a brighter future. By reinforcing the importance of righteousness, integrity, and community, Mahama called upon spiritual leaders to unite in their mission to restore Ghana’s peace, prosperity, and moral compass. His words evoked the need for spiritual commitment in social leadership to combat corruption and offer dignity to God’s people.
A significant aspect of Mahama’s address was his commitment to religious freedom and the role of faith-based institutions in societal upliftment. He promised to uphold constitutional rights, ensuring that churches can operate freely and contribute to social development. In recognizing the potential of religious organizations in economic growth, he proposed partnerships that would enable churches to engage in lucrative agricultural ventures, thus fostering economic independence and stability in local communities. Mahama elaborated on expanding church influence in educational governance and health service development, which would enhance the moral grounding of the future generation.
Mahama also outlined a series of policies intended to address immediate economic hardships and lay the groundwork for structural growth and transformation. These included comprehensive economic recovery programs focusing on fiscal prudence, job creation, and infrastructure development, coupled with social protective measures for vulnerable populations. Through initiatives like the ’24-hour Economy’ policy aimed at improving productivity, job opportunities, and support for targeted industries, he reinforced a commitment to innovation and responsiveness to economic challenges. Notably, he emphasized the importance of providing comprehensive care for marginalized groups, particularly women and children, ensuring equitable access to essential services.
In conclusion, Mahama’s speech articulated a vision of a revitalized Ghana, built on principles of integrity, collaboration, and resilience through Christ-centered values. He expressed a profound belief in Ghana’s potential and urged collective prayers and support for his leadership ambitions, emphasizing the importance of turning faith into action for national progress. With just two months until the elections, Mahama framed his campaign as not merely a personal pursuit but as a communal journey toward realizing a divine promise for the nation. He recognized the challenges ahead but remained determined, invoking a sense of shared destiny and collective investment in the nation’s future. Through an open call for unity and collaboration, Mahama inspired hope and encouraged Ghanaians to embrace the prospect of a flourishing tomorrow under a responsive and responsible government.
