Methodist Church Ghana urges Ghanaians to commit to violence-free election

The Methodist Church Ghana has affirmed its dedication to national unity, urging Ghanaians to prioritise peace before, during and after the December 7 election.Ghanaians should refrain from propagating inflammatory rhetoric and unsubstantiated allegations, particularly those disseminated on social media platforms, as those actions tended to escalate political tensions.The Church said ensuring a violence-free and transparent election was a civic duty of every Ghanaian for accelerated development.Right Reverend Richardson Aboagye Andam, the Diocesan Bishop of Cape Coast, said: 'Peace is the cornerstone of sustained development; thus, as a nation, we have been fortunate to experience a sustained period of peace in the Fourth Republic.''It is our fervent prayer as the Methodist Church Ghana, and of all well-intentioned individuals, to coexist harmoniously and approach the polls in a spirit of tranquillity.''Let us set aside our disparities, conflicts and animosities by regarding one another as kin. Ghan a serves as the gateway to Africa and a symbol of peace, therefore, let us abstain from violence to further solidify our democratic reputation in Africa.'Bishop Andam, who also serves as the Chairman of the Central Regional Peace Council, made these remarks at the opening of a four-day biannual conference of the Methodist Church Ghana Guild held at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) on Friday.The conference also commemorated the 125th anniversary of the Methodist Guild Holiday Camp on the theme: 'Guild at 125- growing into maturity for effective witnessing.'More than 1,800 members graced the event to give an account of their stewardship over the years and to make decisions aimed at revitalising the Methodist Guild Ghana, which started in Cape Coast.Reflecting on the progress of the Methodist Guild Ghana, Bishop Andam lauded the group's past and present leaders, urging them to remain resolute in their faith.He encouraged them to exhibit courage in their Christian pursuits and to consistently demonstr ate transparency, fairness, and accountability to their followers.Developing strong interpersonal relationships, fostering tolerance, forgiveness and kindness, he asserted, should be fundamental attributes of all Christians, serving as an inspiration to others.A statement delivered on behalf of Professor Johnson Nyarko Boampong, Vice Chancellor of UCC, called for a sense of unity and maturity among followers of Christ.He said: 'This responsibility must endure until we are united in the same belief and knowledge of the Son of God.''We must strive to attain spiritual maturity, progressing until we resemble Christ and embody His perfection. At that point, we will have transcended spiritual infancy.'Source: Ghana News Agency