President John Dramani Mahama has reiterated his commitment to religious inclusivity, describing Ghana’s religious diversity as a valuable national asset that must be safeguarded to promote peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths. He said his constitutional mandate as President requires him to serve all Ghanaians equally, irrespective of their religious affiliations, emphasising that the office demands fairness and equal consideration for Christians, Muslims, traditional religious practitioners and those who do not subscribe to any faith.
Speaking at the 10th World Assemblies of God Congress on Wednesday, October 14, under the theme “One Mandate, Every Nation,” President Mahama said although his Christian faith remained a source of strength, it did not supersede his constitutional obligation to serve every Ghanaian. “As President, I’ve sworn duty to serve every Ghanaian: Christians of every denomination, Muslims, adherents of traditional religion, and even our citizens who profess no faith,” he stated.
The President acknowledged that his commitment to treating people of all religious backgrounds fairly had sometimes raised questions among some Christian leaders about his religious convictions. However, he maintained that impartiality and equal treatment must remain central to his decisions as head of state.
He urged Ghanaians to preserve the country’s religious harmony by strengthening relationships that enable people of different beliefs to live and work together peacefully. “Ghana’s religious diversity is our most precious possession, and we must continue to nurture the relationships that enable neighbours of different faiths to live, work and care for one another,” he said.
Drawing on his personal experience, President Mahama recounted growing up in a family where different religious beliefs coexisted, noting that such differences had never weakened the love and affection among his siblings. “Nevertheless, our different religions do not affect the love and affection that we share,” he added.
He also called on churches to play an active role in national development by promoting integrity, compassion, responsible citizenship and peaceful coexistence. At the same time, he stressed the importance of preserving their independence to speak out against injustice and human suffering.
