Accra: Mr Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, highlighted the need for a unifying factor in Ghana, suggesting that recognizing and honoring God could be that factor. He expressed that God is the one who brings rain, fruitfulness, and prosperity, and acknowledging this could help propel the nation forward. He emphasized that unity can bring people together despite their differences, referencing the story of Jacob and his children.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Bagbin made these remarks when the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving Committee visited him at Parliament House in Accra to discuss the upcoming National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving. This day was declared by President John Dramani Mahama to enable Ghanaians to reflect and thank God for his goodness and mercies towards the nation. The event, themed 'Reset, Reflect and Renew for National Prosperity,' encourages citizens to come together to promote unity and spiritual reflection.
Scheduled for Tuesday, July 01, [Republic Day], with two services planned: a Christian service from 0800 hours to 1000 hours and a Muslim service from 12:30 hours to 1400 hours, the events will be held nationwide across all 16 regions and 261 districts simultaneously. According to the Planning Committee, under the Chairmanship of Mr Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, the Christian Prayers and Thanksgiving Service will be led by Cardinal Appiah Turkson at the Forecourt of the State House, while the Islamic Prayers and Thanksgiving Service will be led by Sheik Osmanu Nuhu Sharubutu, the National Chief Imam, at the Ghana National Mosque in Kanda, Accra.
During the meeting, the importance of unity, spiritual reflection, and collective efforts towards national development was emphasized. The Speaker highlighted the importance of spiritual values and recognizing God's role in the nation's progress, noting that many people agree on the oneness of God despite differences in language and description. Initiatives like the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, he noted, can help promote unity and spiritual reflection.
Mr Bagbin critiqued the political system, suggesting that party politics could lead to division and that a small group of individuals controlled the parties, leading to conflict. He urged that differences should be celebrated, not fought over, and called for working together to move Ghana forward.
Mr Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, Chairman of the Planning Committee, underscored the significance of interfaith harmony and cooperation. He noted that despite differences, Muslims and Christians live and work together peacefully, emphasizing the need for divine guidance and blessings for national development. According to Mr Ankrah, the President, in his invitation to Members of Parliament (MPs), highlighted Ghana's unique trajectory, peace, and harmony among its citizens, particularly between Muslims and Christians. He called for reflection on individual and collective contributions to the country.
Mr Mahama Ayariga, the Majority Leader and Leader of Government Business in Parliament, noted that the day was about unity, hope, and spiritual reflection. He encouraged taking this opportunity to know each other and work together in the spirit of unity and gratitude. Mr Jerry Ahmed Shaib, Second Deputy Minority Whip, referenced John 3:3, emphasizing the need for renewal and transformation in Ghana's leadership and society, highlighting that such transformation is necessary for true progress and stability.
The Clerk of Parliament, Mr Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, emphasized the importance of unity, appreciation for diversity, and the need for a holistic approach incorporating faith, prayer, and cultural values. He advised that differences are meant to be celebrated, not fought over, and called for collective efforts to move Ghana forward.