The Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference (GCBC) has urged the nation to engage in deep reflection and embrace accountable governance in light of recent political unrest, including the Ablekuma North by-election, and the suspension of the Chief Justice—issues they say pose serious risks to Ghana’s democratic progress.
In a communiqué released on Tuesday, July 22, and endorsed by Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, President of the GCBC, the Bishops voiced alarm over these unfolding events, cautioning that failure to address them could erode the pillars of the country’s democratic resilience and societal harmony.
“True democracy transcends the periodic casting of votes,” the statement read. “It embodies a just social order that respects the rule of law, upholds the intrinsic dignity of every human person, and guarantees citizens the right to participate meaningfully in shaping our national destiny.”
The Ghana Catholic Bishops Conference (GCBC) has described the events in the Ablekuma North Constituency as a stark illustration of how easily peace can unravel when impunity takes precedence over justice. The incident, which allegedly involved assaults on civilians and members of the press, was denounced as a “blatant affront to human dignity” and a betrayal of democratic principles.
The Bishops called on the government to initiate “swift, comprehensive, and transparent inquiries” into all reported acts of violence. They also pressed for the implementation of recommendations from previous commissions of enquiry, stressing that “lessons learned must lead to tangible institutional transformation.”
Reasserting their role as moral guides, the Bishops reminded political leaders that “elections are not battles of strength, but forums for the exchange of ideas.”
They appealed to political parties and their followers to show restraint and prioritize national harmony over partisan interests.
The Electoral Commission (EC) was urged to enhance dialogue with stakeholders to rebuild public trust, while the security forces were called upon to uphold professionalism and neutrality in managing and preventing conflict.
On the issue of the Chief Justice’s suspension, the Bishops issued a strong caution against any actions that could compromise the independence of the judiciary. “A robust democracy requires a judiciary that is autonomous, trustworthy, and shielded from political manipulation,” they warned.
While acknowledging the importance of due process, the Bishops voiced deep concern over the potential politicisation of the judiciary, emphasizing that “justice is the essential foundation of national unity.”
They insisted that any move to remove a sitting Chief Justice must strictly adhere to constitutional guidelines and fair procedures. Any perception of executive overreach, they cautioned, could erode public confidence and tarnish the judiciary’s reputation.
In a more uplifting note, the Bishops commended the recent National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving led by President John Dramani Mahama, calling it a “timely occasion for spiritual and civic renewal.” They encouraged all Ghanaians to draw strength from the event and recommit to unity, healing, and enduring peace.
“As one people, let us passionately renew our collective pledge to build a just, peaceful, and thriving Ghana—a nation where every citizen finds protection in the law and hope in our shared future,” the statement concluded.
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