The Africa Center for Democracy and Socioeconomic Development, CDS Africa, condemns the remark by Founder and Leader of the Movement for Change (M4C), Alan Kyerematen stating that “"as a predominately Christian nation and as Christians, it is our responsibility to ensure we elect a Christian leader who is also a Christlike leader." We regard this remark as divisive and has the potential to undermine the years of religious tolerance, social cohesion and the inclusion that we have worked hard to uphold in this Fourth Republic.
Mr. Kyerematen’s remark stands as the most divisive remark by a politician in our young democracy. Beyond its impact on social cohesion, it endangers the state’s security as well. His remark has been widely condemned by several political figures, as many have described it as a direct attack on Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, who is a Muslim.
Ghana is a secular state and not a Christian state therefore, Mr. Kyerematen is wrong in asserting that Ghana needs a Christlike leader. Athough both Christians and Muslims have their unique set of beliefs and doctrines, they have worked harmoniously to ensure peaceful elections championed by the National Chief Imam and the Christian Council of Ghana. These efforts have contributed to peaceful coexistence resulting in some notable muslims such as the late Aliu Mahama and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia being elected as third and sixth vice presidents respectively. On February 14, 2024, Dr. Bawumia acted as the president following President Akufo-Addo’s trip to Germany for the Munich Security Conference and this is not the first time he has taken on that role. Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, in his nearly eight years as Vice President of Ghana, has, without doubt, redefined the role of Vice President of Ghana, by making it attractive through his impactful leadership.
Mr. Kyerematen should therefore be focused on specifying actionable plans and strategies that will help him achieve his goals as a preferred candidate. He should also focus on how his economic growth and industrialization drive will not result in the neglect of other important aspects of development, such as social welfare, healthcare, and education instead of focusing on sharing divisive religious sentiments.
Therefore, CDS Africa calls on the Peace Council, CSOs, and all Ghanaians to denounce the remark. Political parties and candidates must understand that the ordinary Ghanaian has moved from the base politics of yesterday to appreciate the politics of ideas.
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