The National Chairman of the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, says churches have a critical role to play in shaping the youth to be patriotic and to safeguard the country’s stability and harmony.
According to him, the church could incorporate civic education into its activities to mentor its teeming youth and congregation.
Mr. Nketiah made the remarks when he graced the centenary anniversary of the Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA) Church at Sekyedumase in the Ashanti Region.
“They say charity begins at home. I believe the church has a responsibility in shaping our youth. Maybe it can start with incorporating civic education in your teachings,” he stated.
“The era of hate speech is becoming alarming and threatens the stability of this country,” the NDC National Chairman added.
Background
The centenary, held on 3rd October 2026 at Sekyedumase in the Ejura-Sekyedumase Municipality, marked 100 years of Adventist presence in the area. It brought together traditional leaders, clergy, political figures and residents. The SDA Church used the occasion to announce plans to establish a College of Education at Sekyedumase to expand access to teacher training.
Mr. Nketiah, who was the guest of honour, used the platform to touch on two topical national issues – the role of faith-based organisations in national cohesion and the debate over the timing of general elections.
He has in recent months called on religious bodies, including the SDA Church and the Saviour Church, to support a constitutional amendment that would fix voting on a Tuesday, instead of the current practice where the Electoral Commission fixes 7th December which sometimes falls on Friday, Saturday or Sunday – days of worship for Muslims, Adventists and other Christians.
He also cautioned against rising intolerance and hate speech in public discourse, urging churches to preach unity and responsible citizenship as part of their civic responsibility.
