Former President John Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has sparked controversy with his recent comments on church and mosque-goers during his campaign tour in the Bono Region.
Addressing a gathering of supporters, in the Bono Region, Mr Mahama stated, “Sometimes church and mosque-goers are the most criminals.”
His comments have been met with widespread criticism, with many accusing him of making sweeping generalizations about religious groups.
This is not the first time John Mahama has made headlines for his comments on religion.
In 2019, he faced backlash for his remarks on the role of Christianity in Ghana’s development, which some interpreted as dismissive of the faith’s contributions.
Mahama’s latest comments have reignited debates about the intersection of religion and politics in Ghana. While some have defended his right to free speech on social media, others have condemned his statements as divisive and insensitive.
The NDC has sought to clarify John Mahama’s comments, stating that he was highlighting the need for moral accountability among all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliations.
In a country where religion plays a significant role in shaping identity and informing moral values, Mahama’s comments have struck a nerve.
-BY Daniel Bampoe