Accra, Oct. 29, GNA- Right Reverend Dr Hilliard Dela Dogbe, Presiding Prelate, A.M.E. Zion Church, Western-West Africa Episcopal District, has called on Ghanaians to vote responsibly and uphold the well-being of all citizens, irrespective of political affiliation.
He urged the electorates to vote prayerfully and according to their conscience, not because someone had offered them a bribe or money.
“We cannot sell our conscience for a pot of porridge,” he said in a statement at the Church’s second consultative forum in Winneba, in the Central Region.
The forum brought together over 600 participants, including 400 preachers and approximately 120 youth and young adult leaders.
The forum also brought together ⁰key stakeholder institutions, including the leaderships of the National Commission for Civic Education, the Electoral Commission, the Police, and the political parties.
The forum looked at the church’s financial health and future initiatives, ground breaking for the Church’s proposed Retreat and Conference Center at Edumfa in Cape Coast, and discussions at incorporating the youth into the church’s decision-making processes.
This is an exciting time for engagement, reflection, and prayer as we seek guidance and wisdom in our discussions,” Dr Dogbe said.
Rt Rev Dogbe underscored the church’s mission to promote peace and unity.
The Clergyman made reference to a statement that John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, made on October 6, 1774, speaking to the people of Great Britain.
John Wesley stated, “Vote without fee or reward for the person whom you judge most worthy; speak no evil of the person you voted against; and take care that your spirits are not sharpened against those who voted on the other side.”
Rt Rev Dogbe said even though the upcoming elections would be critical, not as a life-and-death matter, as some political aspirants make it out to be.
“It is an election to select a leader who will guide this nation toward the prosperous future we all dream of. So, listen to them, listen well, discern, pray, and on that day, go and vote—not because you have received a fee or a promised reward,” he said.
He charged Ghanaians to be moderate in our utterances, devoid of intemperate language with each other.
“Treat your brothers and sisters as you would want them to treat you. If you don’t want to be insulted, don’t insult others. If you want peace, sow seeds of peace.
“It is my prayer that not only do we seek peace in this country, but that each and every one of us becomes an ambassador of peace,” he said.
A speech on behalf of Mrs Jean Mensah, Chairperson, Electoral Commission, said the Commission was committed to a credible, transparent, and successful general election in 2024.
“We are confident that the 2024 election will be peaceful, knowing that there are people fervently praying for the country’s success,” she said.
GNA