Lack of political will in our body politic killing our country – Archbishop of Accra laments

The Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie has decried the dearth of political will plaguing the nation, asserting that it is contributing to the gradual demise of the country.

Addressing the congregation of St. James Catholic Church in Osu, in a Palm Sunday homily, Archbishop Kwofie emphasized the shared responsibility of leadership among all individuals, regardless of their societal roles.

“We are all leaders,” he proclaimed, highlighting the significance of leadership in families, workplaces, communities, and government.

The Archbishop underscored the critical need for introspection, urging citizens to seek renewal not from external sources but from within themselves.

“If we want renewed hope of nationhood, then we need not to look to the distant. We need to look into ourselves,” he said.

Drawing parallels between the solemnity of Palm Sunday and the political landscape, Archbishop Kwofie lamented the tendency of some leaders to perpetuate a state of stagnation akin to the somber atmosphere of Good Friday, rather than leading the nation towards a brighter future akin to Easter’s promise of resurrection and renewal.

He criticized politicians who prioritize personal gain over the welfare of those they represent, highlighting the disconnect between elected officials and the electorate.

“They represent us but some do not listen to us. Some of us (leaders) listen to the screeching of their stomachs more than the screeching of those they are representing,” he said.

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Using his own role as Archbishop as an example, the Prelate stressed the obligation of leaders to serve all individuals within their jurisdiction, regardless of religious affiliation or political persuasion.

He condemned the prevalent partisan divide in politics, noting the tendency for politicians to align strictly with their respective parties at the expense of broader representation and ethical conduct.

“To hold a political office, you are representing everybody in your Constituency. Those who voted for you and those who didn’t vote for you. If we understand politics this way, we have matured greatly in our political life but the contrary is happening,”

“When an NPP person says something, all NPP members will go to his support and when an NDC member says something, all NDC members will support him. Even the independent candidates speak only for one party. What is independent about being an independent candidate? What ethics is guarding our political life? Where lives the truth?” Archbishop Kwofie questioned

“Unfortunately, the lack of political will in our body politic is killing our country,” Archbishop Kwofie lamented.