President Mahama Urges National Unity, Warns Against Tribalism

President John Dramani Mahama has issued a stern warning that Ghana’s cherished peace and unity are critically endangered by the pervasive threats of tribalism, religious extremism, and political hostility. Speaking at the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving service on Tuesday, July 1, the President implored Ghanaians to remain acutely vigilant against these divisive forces. He emphasized that the nation’s stability, especially amidst global conflicts and uncertainties, should never be taken for granted. President Mahama attributed Ghana's enduring peace not solely to political leadership but significantly to the sustained prayers and intercession from its diverse religious communities and individuals.
Highlighting Ghana's unique spiritual harmony, President Mahama stated, "Our faith in Ghana unites us." He noted the peaceful coexistence of churches and mosques, observing that they do not compete for dominance but rather coexist with mutual respect and dignity. He further asserted that the nation’s rich cultural diversity has historically been a source of strength, not weakness. "We must build bridges, not barriers, for we are one people sharing one land and pursuing one identity and destiny," he urged, reinforcing the call to resist any attempts to ignite tensions along ethnic or religious lines, thereby safeguarding the country's social cohesion.
Beyond national unity, President Mahama also called for a profound renewal of accountability within public life. He stressed that leadership must be firmly rooted in principles of justice, humility, and unwavering service to the people. Underscoring the importance of adherence to the rule of law, he declared, "Even the office of the President, which, by the grace of God, I now hold, is not above the law." He added that for Ghana to be truly just, its leadership must exemplify justice. The establishment of the National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, coinciding with Republic Day, was described as a spiritual milestone, offering a crucial moment for collective reflection, repentance, and rededication to Ghana's future.
The solemn event, held at the forecourt of the State House, saw the attendance of prominent figures including Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, First Lady Mrs. Lordina Mahama, the Speaker of Parliament, the acting Chief Justice, members of the Council of State, traditional leaders, heads of Christian denominations, and members of the diplomatic community. President Mahama acknowledged the vital role of faith-based organizations in shaping the nation’s moral values and appealed for their continued guidance in national discourse. He concluded his address with a heartfelt prayer for peace, recovery, and unity across Ghana.
In addition to his calls for unity, President Mahama expressed his confidence in divine intervention for Ghana's economic recovery, stating his belief that God would heal the land following years of economic crisis. Notably, the National Day of Prayer also saw the participation of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) national executives and their Minority leadership in Parliament, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin. However, a point of concern was raised by the Africa Development Council, which expressed dissatisfaction over the perceived sidelining of traditional religious practices from the National Day of Prayer, advocating for a more inclusive approach to honor Ghana’s traditional authorities as pillars of unity.