Let's Engage In Mature Politics — Owusu
Ghanaians have been urged to move from the unproductive and retroactive politics to a grown and mature one.
Addressing members of the Young Adult Fellowship (YAF) of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana faith congregation at Madina Estate on the topic: “Christian Perspective of Politics,” Mr G.B.K Owusu, a Media Consultant, lamented that after 51 years of independence and 48 years of attaining republican status, Ghana's political seed had not germinated to bear any mature fruits.
He attributed the causes to selfishness, greed, graft, acrimony, dishonesty, avarice, envy, corruption and tribalism.
Mr Owusu pointed out that mature politicians always buried their differences to move the nation ahead, instead of subverting and condemning every good decision.
He stated that “politics is a science of good governance and its practitioners must put the nation first.
It is through this unity of purpose, loyalty, devotion and dedication that our dreams can be translated into reality and make Ghana a better nation.”
The media consultant reminded politicians that so far as they cherished their parties more than the country's progress, it would not be easy to move the nation forward.
Mr Owusu stated that politics, with its ethical practices and manifestos, could be likened to the Ten Commandments given by God to the Israelites.
These practices, according to Mr Owusu, must aim at righteousness, unity, love, patriotism, respect for authority, compassion, peace and humility.
He, therefore, called on politicians to be faithful to their national call and desist from any dubious acts that would deny the electorate their needs and wants — schools, water, roads, security, hospitals and shelter.
Mr Owusu deplored the low spirit of patriotism in the country. “If we are Ghanaians and are concerned about development of our nation, then we must emulate what Prophet Nehemiah did when he sought permission from King of Susa to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.
With determination, backed by God's direction, Prophet Nehemiah succeeded in mobilising the Jews to accomplish his mission. “We need more Nehemiahs to move the country forward,” he charged.
Mr Owusu stated that Ghana's rich human resources could be harnessed by all political parties and not by any single party. “Sharing of ideas, suggestions and decisions provides a healthy platform for national growth and progress,” he said.
He exhorted Christians who had already registered to endeavour to vote on December 7, adding “your vote is your power, but before you do that, listen to aspirants who base their campaign messages on issues and not on personalities.
Be mindful of those who engage in mudslinging and threats. Vote for God-fearing people who are mature, honest and respectful.”
Mr Owusu advised Christians not to carry politics to the church by wearing political paraphernalia. “You can conduct your campaign outside the church but not inside.
“Pastors and church agents must also not use the pulpit to promote one political party against another.
It is the duty of Christian politicians to always pray fervently for peace, unity, harmony, love and stability.”
He expressed the hope that one day, all political leaders would meet to pray together and share a common meal at the Castle or at the Conference Centre.