Very Rev. Prof. J. K. Asamoah-Gyadu, a fellow of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences and an expert in African Pentecostal and Charismatic Christianity, has said that Ghana has all it takes to become a prosperous nation, however, its growth has been hindered by politicians who are prioritising partisan interests over the welfare of the nation.
Prof Asamoah-Gyadu said this when he delivered a presentation on the topic “Leadership and Human Flourishing: Making A Case for Social Justice.” at the maiden National Development Conference 2023 (NADEC’23) organised by The Church of Pentecost to push an agenda for moral vision and national development.
In his presentation, Rev. Prof. Asamoah-Gyadu expressed profound concern that Ghana has not effectively harnessed its resources to promote human flourishing because its leadership has not genuinely sought the well-being of its people. This, according to him, is in contrast with the teachings of Jesus, who called for compassionate care for all (as stated in Matthew 25:34–40).
The esteemed theologian did not shy away from criticising the political landscape in the nation, describing it as “filled with bigotry and lacking political acumen, leading to a barrage of insults.”
Rev. Asamoah-Gyadu also questioned the impact of politicians resorting to vulgar and insulting language, asking whether they would want their own children to emulate such behaviour.
He urged political leaders to prioritise the well-being of the people, referring to the teachings of John 10:10.
He further stated that politicians can only claim the moral right to lead the nation once they effectively utilise human and material resources to improve society and human flourishing.
He also underscored the importance of social justice in achieving a reasonably decent life and fair resource distribution for development.
Expressing optimism about Ghana’s potential for social justice, Rev. Asamoah-Gyadu praised the nation’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, calling for a united effort of the entire Ghanaian citizenry to achieve social justice.
Rev. Asamoah-Gyadu thanked The Church of Pentecost for actively involving the Church in Ghana in the nation’s political journey and moral vision.
He also urged the Church to hold political leaders accountable and refrain from pampering them, instead challenging them on social justice during their interactions.
For the conference to have a meaningful impact, Rev. Asamoah-Gyadu urged the participants to explore practical ways of implementing the valuable lessons brought to light through the various presentations and deliberations.
PENTECOST NEWS.
