President Akufo-Addo has called upon the general public to join in prayers to safeguard the peace of Ghana. He expressed his aspiration to see his government successfully complete its full 4-year term on January 7, 2025.
The President made this appeal during a valedictory ceremony for Rev. Dr. Seth Kissi, the outgoing chairperson of Akyem Abuakwa Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana. The ceremony took place in Kyebi, located in the Eastern region, on August 29.
“Pray for Ghana to remain united in peace and to continue thriving for progress and prosperity. I maintain my faith in the Almighty God to help advance our nation’s fortunes through appropriate policies, determination, and hard work on our part,” he emphasized.
President Akufo-Addo further urged prayers for himself and the individuals he has appointed to various positions of responsibility. He wished for them to continue discharging their duties with humility and integrity.
As he envisions the end of his tenure on January 7, 2025, the President expressed his hope to echo the words of St. Paul in 2 Timothy 4:7-8: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” He shared his anticipation of a crown of righteousness awaiting not only him but also those who have longed for the appearing of the Lord.
President Akufo-Addo’s recent call for public support arrives at a critical juncture, coinciding with a concerning surge of military takeovers across the African continent, particularly within West Africa. Since 2020, eight successful coups have taken place, impacting countries including Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea, and Niger. The latest incident unfolded in Gabon, where military forces placed President Ali Bongo under house arrest on August 30.
This wave of military interventions has sparked strong condemnation from entities like the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Security experts have cited various reasons for these actions, encompassing issues like poor governance, efforts to prolong presidential terms, and escalating human insecurity.
In light of this regional context, concerns have arisen that Ghana, too, should be vigilant in addressing any shortcomings to prevent a similar fate. President Akufo-Addo’s administration, which commenced in 2017 with ambitious pledges, did fulfill certain commitments, including the successful implementation of the Free Senior High School program. Nevertheless, a considerable segment of the Ghanaian populace remains dissatisfied due to lackluster economic performance and a growing perception of corruption.
In January 2023, Ghana experienced a startling surge in year-on-year inflation, reaching an alarming 54.1%. Food inflation soared to 59.7%, and transportation costs witnessed an unprecedented increase of 71.4%. Consequently, Ghana was compelled to seek a $3 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) due to the unsustainable levels of national debt. As part of the government’s commitment to meet the IMF’s conditions, a domestic debt exchange program was initiated.
President Akufo-Addo’s call for prayers and unity, against this backdrop, underscores the urgency for the government to address economic challenges, improve governance, and enhance public satisfaction to safeguard Ghana’s democratic stability in an environment marked by heightened regional political uncertainties.
