Ghana’s democracy will strengthen by judging leaders primarily on competence, character, and vision. This assessment should also include their ability to unite the nation, rather than focusing on religious identity. An opinion piece published by JoyNews Online emphasizes this crucial perspective for the country’s future.
The discussion comes as Dr. Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia leads the New Patriotic Party (NPP) towards the 2028 presidential election. Some religious sentiments have unfortunately entered the political conversation. The suggestion that a Muslim president could threaten Christianity or cause one religion to override another is a divisive narrative that must be rejected. Ghana belongs to all its citizens, regardless of their faith.
This perspective fits into Ghana's broader political landscape, which has historically valued religious tolerance and national cohesion. The nation's Constitution explicitly recognizes freedom of worship for all citizens. Maintaining this unity is vital for economic stability and social progress, preventing religious divisions from undermining national development efforts. Past elections have seen attempts to inject religious bias, but Ghana has largely resisted such pressures.
The opinion piece draws a powerful lesson from the biblical story of Cyrus. Cyrus, who was not an Israelite, was used by God to rebuild Jerusalem and lay the Temple's foundation. Isaiah 44:28 states, “He is my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure.” This example shows that God is sovereign and not limited by human expectations regarding religious or ethnic identity. The article suggests that Ghanaians should not assume a person’s religious identity automatically disqualifies them from serving the nation's good.
This does not mean Dr. Bawumia is literally Cyrus. Instead, the story teaches us not to dismiss how God can work through people in unexpected ways. The real question for Ghanaians should focus on a candidate's competence, experience, and character for national leadership. Dr. Bawumia’s supporters highlight his background as an economist, academic, banker, and former Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana. They also point to his tenure as Vice-President and his involvement in major digitalization initiatives. These are tangible matters for public assessment and debate.
Ghanaians should compare his record, policies, and vision with those of other candidates. Decisions should be based on facts and issues, not religious identity. Dr. Bawumia has also demonstrated a record of engaging across religious lines. He has attended Christian worship services, including Good Friday and Easter services, and Catholic worship. He has publicly spoken about the importance of religious tolerance. Such actions show an understanding that Ghanaian politics should not be reduced to religious divisions.
A leader of Ghana must respect and work with all faiths because the nation belongs to everyone. The article also stresses the importance of humility and restraint in public life. Politics can be harsh, but leaders should maintain a demeanour of restraint. Proverbs 15:1 advises, “A soft answer turneth away wrath.” This principle, alongside 1 Peter 5:5, which teaches humility, are virtues expected from every political leader.
Clergy members have a significant responsibility to promote peace. While religious leaders are entitled to political opinions, no Ghanaian should be told another citizen is unfit to lead due to their faith. Disagreements can occur without planting religious fear. Places of worship should strengthen national bonds, not divide them. Ghana has enjoyed remarkable religious peace, and this must be preserved. Competence, character, humility, unity, and issue-based politics should guide the nation. Dr. Bawumia, like all candidates, should be judged by his record and ability to lead Ghana. The Cyrus lesson encourages an open mind to who can serve the nation effectively.