As an election year fast approaches, there is a pressing need for the Ghanaian citizenry to reflect on our past political experiences and collectively chart a new course for our nation’s political future.
As Mahatma Gandhi wisely remarked, “Politics without principles, and principles without politics, are both useless.” This sentiment resonates strongly in the context of Ghana’s political landscape.
In the realm of government’s highest echelons, it becomes increasingly challenging to combat corruption effectively when individuals ascend to power through questionable means and unethical processes. Morality, therefore, stands as the linchpin in the battle against corruption in these influential spheres.
Thus, it is imperative that all political entities, whether it be the NPP, NDC, or independent candidates, come together to establish a consensus centered on a moral vision and a national development agenda. Failure to do so will result in ongoing challenges for our nation, including:
- The unfortunate practice of successive governments abandoning projects initiated by their predecessors.
- The neglect of essential infrastructure projects, such as roads, until election season approaches.
- Continued vulnerability to the influence of neo-colonialists and imperialist international actors. Institutions like the Bretton Woods organizations impose unfavorable conditions to safeguard their interests, while foreign investors and donors prioritise the well-being of their home countries.
- The perpetuation of divisive political discourse along tribal lines and party affiliations, which hinders participation and cooperation, fostering political polarisation.
The recent All Ministers’ Conference (AMC), which was a follow-up to the National Development Conference (NADEC) delivered a clear message, particularly to those with discerning hearts. It is time to heed this call.
For the well-being of our nation, it is crucial that values like contentment, simplicity, and propriety permeate the conduct of individuals in both government and opposition.
Public leadership must align with moral vision and national development goals. Those who aspire to serve the public should understand that practicing morality is an essential ingredient in the process of nation-building for national development.
Our current economic challenges cannot be solely attributed to external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, although they have played a role. The compounding issues of corruption, indiscipline, and irresponsibility within private and public offices since gaining independence have significantly contributed to our woes.
To usher in meaningful change, we must accept responsibility for our actions and prioritise moral vision for national development. Incremental changes like practicing contentment, simplicity, truthfulness, diligence, and propriety will yield transformative results in Ghana’s political, socio-cultural, and economic landscape in the years to come.
We extend our gratitude to The Church of Pentecost and all faith communities for their tireless efforts in repositioning and refocusing political governance in Ghana on the principles of moral vision and national development.
May God bless our nation Ghana and make her great and strong nation.
Written by Elder Elijah Hayford (Kwesimintsim District, Takoradi Area)