Politics should be devoid of religious and ethnic sentiments

Kumasi, Oct. 4, GNA - The Reverend Dr Nathan Samwini, a Lecturer of Religious Studies, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, has advised Ghanaian politicians to avoid whipping up religious and ethnic sentiments in their campaigns.

He entreated them to tackle issues that promote social cohesion and peaceful co-existence, stability and the general wellbeing of the people.

He said campaigning for votes based on religious and ethnic considerations are counter-productive, saying instances where some politicians wade into these issues with the notion of being voted for could create tension and violence in the society.

Rev Samwini made the call in a speech read on his behalf at an inter-faith meeting in Kumasi, held on the theme: 'One nation, much faith.'

It was organised by the Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) in collaboration with the KNUST Studies Religious Department, bringing on board people from all religious backgrounds to deliberate o issues bothering peaceful co-existence.

The Lecturer said the fact that the nation has not yet experienced major religious conflict should not be a reason for the people to be complacent.

He, therefore, challenged opinion, religious and community leaders, to always preach peace and unity to help the nation achieve her development goals.

Rev Dr Kwabena Opuni-Frimpong, General-Secretary of the CCG said the programme was borne out of the conviction that religious tolerance remains fundamental to societal growth.

GNA