The Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) has endorsed President John Dramani Mahama’s lean administration, saying the commitment reflects a strategic effort to enhance governance in response to the growing demand for efficiency and fiscal prudence.
The council said the measure would be achieved by reducing the size of government to ensure the efficient use of national resources; streamlining ministries, departments, and agencies to eliminate redundancies; emphasising results-driven policies that tackled economic and employment challenges and promoting accountability, transparency, and value for money in all government operations.
While commending the President for those reforms, the GPCC urged the government to maintain that focus throughout the next four years to ensure sustainable national development.
“The Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) acknowledges this emerging governance trend, which demonstrates the President’s commitment to reducing waste, enhancing accountability, and directing public resources towards national development,” it said.
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The GPCC encouraged the President to continue streamlining government operations for better service delivery, financial prudence and responsive leadership, stressing that smaller and specialised teams could enhance transparency and improve governance.
These were contained in a communique issued by the GPCC at the end of its annual Conference of Heads of Churches and Organisations at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC) at Gomoa Fetteh in the Central Region.
On the theme, “Shining Like Stars in the World” (Philippians 2:15), the conference focused on spiritual renewal, fellowship and national engagement.
Commendation
“This commitment reflects a strategic effort to enhance governance by reducing the size of government to ensure the efficient use of national resources, streamlining ministries, departments, and agencies to eliminate redundancies, emphasising results-driven policies that tackle economic and employment challenges and promoting accountability, transparency and value for money in all government operations,” it said about President Mahama’s campaign promise to work with not more than 60 ministers.
The GPCC congratulated President Mahama on his return to the high office, as well as Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, for emerging as Ghana’s first female Vice-President while appreciating the early and statesmanlike concession by the former Vice-President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, that significantly contributed to the peaceful post-election process.
“The GPCC acknowledges the peaceful conduct of the 2024 general election and commends the Electoral Commission (EC), the National Elections Security Task Force, led by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), civil society organisations (CSOs), and all stakeholders who prioritised national peace and unity over divisive rhetoric,” it added.
Another milestone
The GPCC also congratulated Ghanaians on their steadfast commitment to democracy, peace, and national development, adding that the successful conduct of the 2024 elections, the smooth transition of power and the progress made in governance reaffirm Ghana’s enduring democratic values.
It said the 2024 elections marked another milestone in Ghana’s democratic journey because “the process was free, fair and transparent, with active participation from key stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organisations, the security services and the Electoral Commission of Ghana.”
“The peaceful transition of power further solidified Ghana’s position as a beacon of democracy on the African continent.
The GPCC extends its gratitude to the citizens of Ghana for their patience, maturity and dedication to national peace throughout the process.”
Post-election violence, fire outbreaks
Despite the overall success of the elections, the GPCC expressed concern over the acrimony and confusion that arose during results collation in certain constituencies.
“The Council urges all stakeholders to remain committed to nurturing Ghana’s democracy by fostering dialogue, mutual respect and collaboration in the interest of national peace and development,” it stressed.
The GPCC also lamented the recent surge in fire outbreaks across the country, particularly in various markets, leading to the destruction of goods and property.
It said such incidents undermined the dignity and credibility of Ghana’s democracy.
Violence in Parliament
The GPCC strongly condemned the recent violence and destruction of property in Parliament during the vetting process.
It stated that MPs must uphold high standards of integrity, professionalism and accountability, setting a positive example for the public.
“Parliamentarians should prioritise national development and ensure that the welfare of citizens remains at the core of their legislative duties.
“MPs must avoid corruption, misuse of power and any actions that erode public trust,” it said.
The GPCC, therefore, called on lawmakers to uphold democratic values, demonstrate true leadership, and remain transparent in their actions and decisions.
“Despite these unfortunate incidents, the GPCC acknowledges Ghana’s Parliament as a model for democracy in Africa and beyond, showcasing the power of dialogue, compromise and collective action in addressing national challenges,” it observed.
Galamsey fight
The GPCC urged government agencies to intensify the fight against galamsey and prioritise environmental protection, climate change mitigation and the sustainable use of natural resources for future generations.
“Recent reports indicate a rising incidence of cancer and renal diseases, particularly in Ghana’s forest belt, which coincides with galamsey-endemic areas.
“Disturbingly, there are growing reports of birth defects and cancers in affected areas, underscoring the urgent need for intervention,” it emphasised.
Commitment
The GPCC reiterated its commitment to using its platforms and networks to educate congregations on the importance of environmental stewardship despite lacking enforcement powers to compel compliance.
It called on the government to exercise its full authority to protect the environment and resist the selfish interests of a few individuals from destroying the livelihoods of the majority and endangering future generations.
The GPCC also urged the authorities to apply environmental laws impartially and without political bias.
“Swift and strict enforcement is needed to curb the reckless destruction of Ghana’s ecosystem. To curb illegal mining, the GPCC advocates stronger law enforcement alongside the provision of alternative employment opportunities for youth and vulnerable populations,” it advised.
The GPCC reaffirmed its commitment to support the government towards the achievement of these ideals for the betterment of the country.
“It is the unwavering expectation of the Council that with unity, vigilance and a shared sense of purpose, Ghana will continue to chart a path of peace, progress and prosperity for all her citizens,” it said.
Critical issues
The GPCC conference addressed critical issues affecting the Body of Christ and society, highlighting the growing moral decline in communities across the country.
It underlined the striking contrast between statistics indicating that over 71 per cent of Ghanaians identified themselves as Christians as opposed to the increasing trends of moral decay in society.
The conference emphasised that Ghanaian Christians could positively influence their communities by living out their faith and actively contributing to societal well-being.
In response to the poor influence of Christian values in the nation, the Church was challenged to take deliberate steps to effect change.
Promoting moral and ethical values
“The Church is called to serve as a model of integrity, honesty and compassion in society.
The Church must remain firmly grounded in sound biblical doctrine and consistently teach these principles both in the churches and at home.
Biblical truth shapes communities built on morality, respect and godly living, fostering a society that honours Christ in all aspects of life,” it said.
It said the Church was called not only to proclaim the Gospel but also to nurture believers through discipleship.
“True transformation happens when evangelism is paired with intentional discipleship, raising Christlike Christians who live out their faith and positively impact their communities,” it added.
