The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) has issued a strong call for national reflection, responsible leadership, and a renewed commitment to the rule of law in light of recent political tensions, including electoral violence in Ablekuma North and the suspension of the Chief Justice.
In a statement dated Tuesday, July 22 and signed by GCBC President, Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, the Bishops warned that these developments, if not addressed decisively, risk undermining Ghana’s democratic foundations and social cohesion.
“True democracy transcends the periodic casting of votes,” the statement emphasized. “It embodies a just social order that respects the rule of law, upholds the intrinsic dignity of every human person, and guarantees citizens the right to participate meaningfully in shaping our national destiny.”
The Bishops described the violence during the Ablekuma North by-election — including reported attacks on civilians and journalists as a “gross violation of human dignity” and a serious affront to democratic principles. They stressed that such incidents highlight the fragile nature of peace when accountability is sidelined.
The Conference called on the State to conduct “prompt, thorough, and transparent investigations” into all acts of electoral violence. They also urged the government to implement recommendations from previous commissions of inquiry, noting that meaningful institutional reforms are essential to preventing future unrest.
Reaffirming their moral responsibility, the Bishops reminded political actors that elections must be grounded in ideas, not intimidation.
“Elections are not a contest of might, but a platform for the exchange of ideas,” they stated, urging political parties and their supporters to exercise restraint and prioritize national unity over partisan interests.
They also advised the Electoral Commission (EC) to deepen stakeholder engagement to help restore public trust, and called on the security services to maintain professionalism and neutrality in managing electoral-related conflicts.
Addressing concerns surrounding the suspension of the Chief Justice, the Bishops issued a clear caution against actions that could compromise the independence of the judiciary.
“A healthy, functioning democracy equally demands an independent, credible judiciary, free from political interference,” the statement noted.
While acknowledging the importance of due process, they warned that any perception of political manipulation within the judiciary could severely damage public confidence in the legal system.
They stressed that the removal or suspension of a sitting Chief Justice must be handled strictly in accordance with constitutional provisions and principles of fairness.
In a more conciliatory note, the GCBC commended President John Dramani Mahama’s recent leadership in organizing a National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving. They described the initiative as a “welcome moment for spiritual and civic reflection,” and urged all Ghanaians to draw inspiration from it as the nation seeks healing and unity.
“As one people, let us fervently renew our shared covenant to build a just, peaceful, and prosperous Ghana, a nation where every citizen finds refuge in the law and hope in our common future,” the statement concluded.
