Religion has no place in our elections

Maintaining peace, law and order in a nation is contingent upon fostering a climate of mutual respect and understanding among the diverse religious groups.

Fortunately, Ghana has consistently demonstrated a remarkable model of interfaith harmony, with Christians, Traditionalists and Muslims coexisting peacefully and collaborating towards the nation's progress and development.

This exemplary unity has earned the country recognition as a beacon of religious tolerance on the continent and beyond, underscoring the imperative of preserving and strengthening this delicate balance.

Our remarkable religious tolerance diverges sharply from the dire global landscape, where sectarian violence has ravaged communities and claimed countless lives.

Here, our unique blend of cultures and faiths has given rise to a beautiful tapestry of interconnectedness, with people from different religious traditions forming families, sharing lives, and building a brighter future together.

Beyond that, our exemplary democracy has earned the reputation as a shining example for Africa, a continent still healing from civil unrest.

The country's peaceful elections and seamless transitions of power in 2000, 2008 and 2016 are a testament to our democratic maturity. The inclusive and transparent nature of our electoral process, involving all stakeholders, is truly commendable and lauded across the planet.

Our commitment to democracy is evident in our robust institutions, respect for human rights and vibrant civil society. The Electoral Commission and Judiciary have consistently demonstrated independence and impartiality, ensuring the rule of law is upheld.

Civil society organisations have also played a significant role in promoting democracy and good governance in Ghana . Their efforts, along with those of other stakeholders, have contributed to the deepening of our democracy, and the maturity and tolerance we are witnessing as a country.

In the past elections, the contest, especially between the leaders of the two main political parties – National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP), did not raise any concern as far as religion is concerned since both leaders shared the same Christian faith.

However, with the 2024 general election approaching, concerns arise regarding the potential use of religion as a campaign tactic.

This year's elections are unique, as the two main contenders, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidates, represent different religious backgrounds - Christianity and Islam. This development raises legitimate fears about the exploitation of religious sentiments for political gain.

The Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) has wisely cautioned against this dangerous path (October 9, 2024 issue of the Daily Graphic). We must heed this warning and preserve our legacy of democratic excellence.

The Daily Graphic strongly supports the council's stance that exploiting religion for political gain is harmful and unacceptable. Using the "religion card" in this election won't benefit anyone and could spark disturbances. No country is immune to religious tension, so let us focus on sharing ideas, not religious affiliations.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights provide foundational principles for religious tolerance and freedom. These documents serve as beacons of hope and instruments of change, guiding the world towards a future where respect for religious diversity is not just encouraged but mandated.

In today's world, where religion can be a sensitive and divisive topic, keeping politics secular is essential for maintaining social harmony and ensuring equal rights for all citizens, regardless of their faith .