Christian coalition challenges government over alleged unequal treatment of religious groups

The Centre for Christian Defence (CCD), a coalition of Christian clergy, has called on the government to address what it describes as unequal treatment of religious communities in Ghana, insisting that Christian institutions and believers must enjoy the same constitutional protections as other religious groups.

The coalition made the demand at a press conference at the Kumasi Cultural Centre on Tuesday, where it questioned the government’s commitment to religious neutrality and called for action on several concerns affecting Christians.

Speaking under the theme “The Church’s Contributions, Present Challenges, and Demand for Freedom to Do More,” the CCD Secretary, Rev. Franklin Adasi, said the Church had made significant contributions to Ghana’s development and should not be sidelined in national affairs.

The group stressed that its demands were not intended to undermine other religious communities but to ensure that Christians received equal treatment under the law.

"Government, answer us. Silence is never neutral," CCD declared in its address.

CCD questions Church’s representation in education

The coalition raised concerns over the reported removal of Church representation from the Ghana Education Service Council, describing the development as an issue requiring urgent attention.

It argued that the government’s alleged exclusion of the Church from an important education policy-making body was inconsistent with its continued reliance on religious institutions to help address indiscipline and other challenges in schools.

The group highlighted the role of Christian missions in the development of education in Ghana, citing the thousands of schools established and managed by various denominations.

It also pointed to the contribution of Christian health institutions, particularly the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG), which operates healthcare facilities serving communities across the country.

According to the coalition, the Church’s contributions to education, healthcare and national development should be accompanied by meaningful participation in decisions affecting those sectors.

National Cathedral debate raises questions about religious neutrality

The CCD also questioned the government’s approach to religious projects, drawing comparisons between the controversy surrounding public funding for the National Cathedral and commitments to Islamic education and other Muslim-focused initiatives outlined in the NDC’s 2024 manifesto.

The coalition cited proposed scholarships for Muslim students, improvements to school infrastructure in Zongo communities, support for Arabic education and initiatives to strengthen Islamic educational institutions.

It also referred to reported Hajj subsidies and proposed facilities for Muslim pilgrims, questioning why similar consideration should not be extended to Christian initiatives.

The organisation clarified that it was not calling for the withdrawal of support for Muslims but wanted the government to demonstrate consistency and fairness in its dealings with religious communities.

“Secularism cannot mean silence for one faith and sponsorship for another,” CCD stated.

It maintained that religious neutrality should guarantee equal treatment rather than create perceptions that one faith receives preferential consideration over another.

CCD raises concerns over religious rights in Larabanga

The coalition further questioned reports that churches and shrines were not permitted in Larabanga and some other Islamic communities.

It compared the reports with national debates over Muslim students’ religious rights in Christian mission schools, arguing that freedom of religion must be protected consistently across the country.

The group called for an investigation into religious access in Larabanga, insisting that constitutional rights should not depend on the religious identity of a community.

It also urged traditional authorities to ensure that customary practices remained consistent with the Constitution.

The CCD reiterated that its concerns were not directed at Muslims as a group, emphasising its respect for all religious communities and its demand for equal freedom for everyone.

Coalition demands investigation into alleged assault of pastor

The organisation also called for an impartial investigation into the reported assault of a Christian preacher while in police custody.

It demanded equal treatment under the law and raised concerns about what it described as inconsistencies in the handling of cases involving Christian preachers and other suspects.

Other issues raised included the need for clarification on the moving-vehicle restriction under Regulation 141 of Legislative Instrument 2519, consistent enforcement of noise regulations and regular engagement between the government and religious organisations.

The coalition also called for effective channels through which complaints concerning religious freedom could be addressed.

It cited Articles 12, 17, 21 and 26 of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution to support its position on equality, freedom of conscience and religious practice.

Do not destroy the bridge simply because you have crossed i

In a direct appeal to politicians, particularly the incumbent government, the CCD urged the authorities not to disregard the Church’s historical contributions to national development.

"Do not destroy the bridge simply because you have crossed it," the organisation declared.

The coalition called on the media, academia and traditional authorities to approach religious issues objectively and apply consistent standards to all faiths.

It also urged Christians to remain peaceful in the face of challenges, cautioning against hatred and violence while encouraging believers to defend their constitutional rights.

Emphasising its position on religious freedom, the group declared: “A constitutional right that must be negotiated with intimidation is no longer functioning as a right.”

The organisation insisted that the Church would neither withdraw from public life nor abandon its demand for justice.

"The Church that built classrooms and clinics will not be pushed out of the public square, nor will it push anyone out," the statement emphasised.

The press conference address was signed by Archbishop Professor Festus Abbey, Chairman; Bishop Nana Bugyei, Vice Chairman; Rev. Franklin Adasi, Secretary; Apostle James Oduro-Appiah, Treasurer; and Rev. Emmanuel Boachie, Public Relations Officer.

The CCD concluded by urging the government to respond to its concerns and uphold the constitutional rights of all Ghanaians, irrespective of their religious beliefs.

The coalition maintained that religious freedom, equality before the law and constitutional protection must apply equally to every citizen.