Why is the Christian Council of Ghana Silent on Dr. Bawumia’s Failed Promises?
The Christian Council, a body that once held the government accountable, seems to have abandoned its role as a moral compass.
19th May, 2024.
As the Deputy Communications Officer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Jomoro constituency, I, Joel Samuel Ndede, express profound disappointment and concern over the recent statements made by Vice President Dr. Mahamadu Bawumia during his nationwide campaign tour. A week ago, while addressing the Christian Council of Ghana in the Bono East region, Dr. Bawumia claimed he was “joking” when he promised in 2016 to financially support churches if the NPP was voted into power.
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Dr. Bawumia’s initial statement, made during his 2016 campaign, suggested that under an NPP government, churches would receive financial support as a recognition of their contributions to society. Fast forward to his recent comments, Dr. Bawumia dismissed his previous promises as a joke. This casual dismissal of his own words is not only disrespectful but also highlights a troubling pattern of unfulfilled promises and lack of accountability that has characterized his tenure.
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Silence of the Christian Council of Ghana
It is particularly disheartening that the Christian Council of Ghana has remained silent on this matter. During the tenure of former President John Dramani Mahama, the Christian Council was vocal in its criticisms, addressing every pressing issue that affected the citizens of Ghana. However, their current silence on the failings of the NPP government, particularly Dr. Bawumia’s recent remarks, is both surprising and troubling.
The Christian Council, a body that once held the government accountable, seems to have abandoned its role as a moral compass. The Council’s silence suggests an alarming double standard, where criticisms are only levied against certain political entities. This lack of consistency undermines the Council’s credibility and raises questions about its impartiality and commitment to social justice.
Broken Promises and Unfulfilled Commitments
Dr. Bawumia’s credibility has long been in question, and his latest remarks only reinforce the skepticism. In my previous article, I highlighted his failure to deliver on numerous promises made during the 2016 elections:
1. One District, One Factory:Many districts are still waiting for their promised factories, with no clear timeline for completion.
2. One Village, One Dam:This project has not delivered the desired results, leaving many communities without the promised water resources.
3. One Million Dollars Per Constituency: The promised funding for each constituency has not materialized, leading to inadequate development across the country.
4. Reduction of Inflation Rates: Despite promises of economic stability, inflation has continued to rise, impacting the cost of living for ordinary Ghanaians.
5. Arresting the Dollar-to-Cedi Rate: The Cedi’s instability against major currencies persists, despite Dr. Bawumia’s assurances.
6. Creating Jobs for the Youth: Unemployment remains a critical issue, with little progress made under Dr. Bawumia’s watch.
7. Introduction of Nuisance Taxes: High taxes on consumables and import duties have worsened the financial burden on Ghanaians.
8. Collapsing Financial Institutions: Several financial institutions have collapsed, leading to significant losses for many Ghanaians.
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9. Reckless Borrowing: Despite massive borrowing, there are few tangible infrastructure projects to show for it.
10. Loss of International Investors: Major international companies have left Ghana, with others considering exits due to economic mismanagement.
The A Call to Action for the Christian Council of Ghana
Today, I urge the Christian Council to remember their own values and responsibilities. Dr. Bawumia and President Nana Akufo-Addo, whom the Council once supported, have taken their loyalty for granted. It is disgraceful for the Vice President to joke about promises made to such a respected organization. His comments not only undermine the trust of the clergy but also insult the intelligence of Ghanaians.
The Council must not remain silent. It is their duty to hold leaders accountable, regardless of political affiliation. I call on the Christian Council to draft a statement condemning Dr. Bawumia’s remarks and to demand an unqualified apology from him to the clergy and the nation.
Conclusion
Dr. Bawumia’s casual dismissal of his promises as jokes is a stark reminder that he lacks the credibility and competence to lead Ghana. Ghanaians deserve a leader who is honest, trustworthy, and serious about fulfilling their commitments. As we approach the 2024 general elections, it is crucial for all well-meaning Ghanaians to recognize the empty rhetoric and failed promises of Dr. Bawumia and the NPP. Instead, we should rally behind the NDC and John Dramani Mahama, whose track record demonstrates a commitment to genuine leadership and transformative change.
Signed,
Joel Samuel Ndede
Deputy Communications Officer, NDC, Jomoro Constituency
Email: [email protected]
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