Ghana Catholic Bishops Urge Ecological Citizenship, Call for Peaceful Elections Amid Concerns

The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference (GCBC) has sounded a clarion call for ecological citizenship, urging collective action from all stakeholders to address the environmental degradation caused by illegal mining activities in the country.
In their communiqué released at the end of their Annual Plenary Assembly held from November 8 to 16, 2024, at the Pope John Paul II Formation and Training Centre in Obuasi, the Bishops expressed grave concerns over the devastating impact of illegal mining, popularly known as “galamsey,” on Ghana’s environment.
The assembly, inspired by Pope Francis’s Jubilee Year 2025 theme, “Pilgrims of Hope,” focused on proclaiming Christ as the hope for the Church and Ghana, under the theme “Jubilee Year: A Time to Proclaim Christ, Hope for the Church and Ghana.”
Addressing the thorny issue of environmental degradation, the Catholic Bishops issued a stern call for collective action, urging various stakeholders to take decisive steps to protect Ghana’s natural heritage.
“We call on the government to enforce laws against illegal mining with utmost strictness and without fear or favor,” the communiqué stated. “We also urge all politicians to prioritize environmental protection as a core agenda, recognizing that a healthy environment is essential for the well-being of our nation and its people.”
The Bishops did not spare regulatory bodies, demanding greater vigilance and honesty in the discharge of their duties and operations. They also implored traditional leaders, such as chiefs and queens, to safeguard their territories and act as custodians of the environment.
Extending their appeal to local communities, the GCBC urged them to embrace their roles as stewards of creation and actively protect their immediate surroundings. Moreover, they exhorted all Catholic clergy and faithful to reject donations from dubious sources and resist involvement in illegal activities that harm the environment.
In a show of solidarity, the they called on other religious leaders, especially Christians and Muslims, to uphold the dictates of their respective scriptures, which enjoin them to care for God’s creation. “We must all reawaken to the truth that Ghana is the only earthly home we have as a people,” the communiqué emphasized, underscoring the urgency of collective action to preserve the country’s natural heritage.
General Elections 2024: Peaceful, Fair, and Credible Process Paramount
As Ghana gears up for the upcoming general elections in December 2024, the Bishops stressed the importance of a peaceful, fair, and credible electoral process. They urged political parties and citizens to refrain from hate speech and uphold democratic values, reiterating their commitment to fostering national peace.
“We call on all stakeholders to ensure that the 2024 general elections are conducted in a peaceful, fair, and credible manner,” the communiqué stated. “Political parties and citizens must avoid hate speech and embrace democratic principles that promote unity and progress.”
Strained Relationship Among Arms of Government: A Call for Institutional Forbearance
The Bishops also addressed the strained relationship among the various arms of government, calling for institutional forbearance and mutual respect. They urged all parties to exercise restraint and work towards resolving their differences through dialogue and adherence to constitutional provisions.
“We appeal for institutional forbearance among the arms of government,” the communiqué read. “Mutual respect and adherence to constitutional principles are essential for maintaining the delicate balance of power and ensuring good governance.”
Bawku Conflict: Dialogue, Reconciliation, and Humanitarian Aid Needed
The protracted conflict in Bawku, a longstanding concern, received particular attention from the GCBC, as they appealed for dialogue, reconciliation, and an end to political interference in finding lasting peace in the region.
“The situation in Bawku remains a major concern for us,” the communiqué stated. “We urge all parties involved to engage in genuine dialogue and reconciliation efforts, free from political interference, to bring an end to this conflict.”
Acknowledging the looming humanitarian crisis due to displacement and lack of access to basic services, the Bishops called for immediate action to address the plight of those affected by the conflict.
Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill: Preserving Traditional Values
On the contentious issue of the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, the Bishops reaffirmed their support for the legislation, urging the President to assent to the Bill promptly. They emphasized the importance of preserving traditional family values while avoiding discrimination.
“We reiterate our support for the Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill,” the communiqué read. “We urge the President to assent to the Bill promptly, as it is essential for preserving our traditional family values while ensuring that no one is subjected to discrimination.”
Reflection, Renewal, and Reaffirmation of Faith in Christ
As the Jubilee Year approaches, the Bishops encouraged reflection, renewal, and a reaffirmation of faith in Christ. They called on Ghanaians to rely on the grace and truth of Christ to overcome national challenges and build a future of unity, justice, and prosperity.
“During this Jubilee Year, we urge all Ghanaians to reflect on their relationship with Christ and renew their commitment to living according to His teachings,” the communiqué stated. “It is through our faith in Christ that we can overcome the challenges facing our nation and build a future of unity, justice, and prosperity for all.”
The communiqué concluded with a call to look to Christ as the eternal hope of the Church and nation. The Bishops invoked blessings for all, urging faith and commitment to shared values.
“Let us look to Christ as our eternal hope, for He is the way, the truth, and the life,” the communiqué affirmed. “May His love, peace, and blessings be upon us all as we strive to build a nation that reflects the values of justice, unity, and prosperity for all.”
The Plenary Assembly, graced by key dignitaries including the new Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana, Most Rev. Julien Kaboré, government officials, and political leaders, also included visits to parishes and the AngloGold Ashanti Mines in the Obuasi Diocese, underscoring the Bishops’ engagement with local communities.
As Ghana prepares for the upcoming elections and grapples with environmental challenges and societal issues, the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has emerged as a powerful voice, calling for collective action, responsible leadership, and a renewed commitment to faith and shared values.

By Innocent Samuel Appiah