His Eminence Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson, Chancellor of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences and Social Sciences, has urged Ghanaians to actively engage in the nation’s development. He emphasised that building a prosperous country is a collective responsibility that does not rest solely on the shoulders of the President or the government. During an appearance on Channel One TV’s The Point of View with Bernard Avle on Monday, July 7, Cardinal Turkson highlighted the importance of civic responsibility and encouraged all citizens to recognize their vital role in shaping Ghana’s future.
“Ghana is not the President. The nation and the country Ghana are not just the President, his ministers, the cabinet, the government, and the people who elected them. Different people are elected to different positions,” he said.“It is just fair to recognise that nation-building is not only the task of the leadership of the nation but also the citizens and members of the nation.”
Cardinal Turkson stressed that while the state is tasked with promoting development and governance, its efforts can only bear fruit if individuals also see themselves as active contributors.
“Living in a nation or state is the relational context in which we develop everything that we have. On occasions like July 1, we must recognise that everyone has a role to play. Nation-building is not the task of only leadership and government, but of everybody,” he added.
He concluded by encouraging Ghanaians to take their civic duties seriously, emphasizing the importance of daily contributions to national life and thoughtful participation in the electoral process. He urged citizens to choose leaders who reflect their values and aspirations. Cardinal Turkson made these remarks just days after addressing the nation during the National Day of Prayer on July 1, an initiative launched by President John Dramani Mahama to promote unity, spiritual reflection, and renewed hope amid the country’s socio-economic challenges.
The event brought together a diverse cross-section of Ghanaian society, including religious leaders, political figures, civil society organisations, and the general public.
It featured interfaith prayers focusing on themes of peace, economic recovery, national cohesion, and moral renewal. While the Christian interdenominational service took place at the forecourt of the State House in Accra, the Islamic prayer session was held at the National Mosque, also located in the capital.
By: Leticia Osei
