The Rise of Political Prophets in Ghana's Electoral Seasons
During every election year, pastors’ prophecies vary widely, supported by the free speech and expression that flourish in Ghana’s democratic environment. These political prophecies generate anticipation among Ghanaians. For some, it fuels hope; for others, it evokes fear. Still, others remain neutral.
RECENT CYCLES
In 2016, Reverend Owusu Bempah predicted Akuffo-Addo’s victory, and it came true.
In 2020, Prophet Nigel Gaisie publicly declared that Mahama would win, as did Prophet Cosmos Affran Walker and Prophet Badu Kober. Conversely, Reverend Owusu Bempah predicted a win for Akuffo-Addo, which also happened.
For 2024, Pastor Kusi claimed Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia had already won “in the spiritual realm,” but ultimately, the victory went to John Dramani Mahama, aligning with Prophet Nigel Gaisie’s prophecy.
In 2026, the NPP presidential primaries were held on January 31st. Following that, several prophecies emerged:
Prophet Bernard ElBernard: Kennedy Agyapong would become the NPP flagbearer for the 2028 election.
Prophet Emmanuel Worlasi: Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia might win the NPP primaries.
Prophet Telvin Sowah Adjei: Bawumia would win the primaries.
Prophet Williams Agyemang: Kennedy Agyapong is winning.
Bishop Sam Owusu: Kennedy Agyapong would win over 50% and become the flagbearer.
After the elections, which declared Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia the winner, Prophet Bernard ElBernard said, “I do not blame anyone or shift responsibility. I accept that this prophesy as declared, failed… I offer my apology to any believer in whom my actions may have sown doubt regarding the voice of God and His ability to speak to His people.” This was reported by YEN News.
At this point, critical questions arise: Was it truly a prophecy from God? Did the pastor lie? Did God change His mind? Should we believe prophecies? Or are they personal predictions cloaked in God’s name?
In the words of Prophet Kofi Oduro to his members, “Let’s not use the pulpit for political nonsense. We have a gospel to preach, we have souls to win.” This echoes Dr. Lawrence Tetteh’s statement last year in an interview: “I am totally against pastors who will stand on their pulpit and declare who is going to become a president.” But since this has been a common occurrence in every election cycle, will it ever stop? It’s acknowledged that pastors are citizens and have political rights, but election periods are tense. As religious leaders, pastors should focus on promoting peace and guiding their communities. Failed political prophecies can seriously undermine democracy since some people believe their desired candidates are God-ordained, leading to challenges to election results, manipulation, rigging, or violence. Additionally, voters may base decisions on prophecies, and failed predictions can diminish followers’ faith in their pastors, especially when these prophecies prove false.
“Religion thrives best when it is not entangled with the power of the state,” as John Locke said.
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