Lawrence Tetteh urges religious leaders to stay politically neutral

Dr Lawrence Tetteh, President of the Worldwide Miracle Outreach, has urged religious leaders in Ghana to remain neutral in politics and called for a united effort to reduce the growing toxic political discourse. 

Speaking to TV3 on Tuesday (October 22, 2024), he emphasised that pastors, journalists, and politicians all have a responsibility to promote a more respectful and constructive political environment.

“Religious leaders should avoid endorsing political candidates or declaring election outcomes from the pulpit. Our focus must be on peacebuilding and uniting the nation,” Dr Tetteh said. 

He warned that when pastors involve themselves in political endorsements, it could deepen divisions across the country. Instead, he encouraged religious leaders to prioritise harmony and national unity.

Dr Tetteh also condemned the rising culture of insults in political conversations, especially among young people. 

He stressed the need for everyone to take responsibility in addressing this. “As a preacher, I must condemn it. You, as a journalist, must condemn it. Politicians too must speak out against it,” he urged, calling on leaders in all sectors to oppose the use of insults in Ghanaian politics.

Acknowledging the media’s role in holding public figures accountable, he pointed out the imbalance in media coverage, where negative soundbites are often highlighted more than positive discussions. 

“We must be careful. By focusing too much on the negatives, we not only harm leaders’ reputations, but also damage Ghana’s international image,” he said.

“We should focus on a national agenda, not political battles,” he added.