Accra: Mr. Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, the Mayor of Kumasi, has called for stronger collaboration among religious leaders, traditional authorities, and political actors, describing their collective influence as indispensable to Ghana's development agenda. He emphasized that religion, chieftaincy, and politics are the three most influential institutions in Ghanaian society, shaping the values, attitudes, and decisions of millions of citizens, and must therefore work in harmony to promote good governance and sustainable national development.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Boadi addressed the Chieftaincy Royals Conference organized by the Suame Area of The Church of Pentecost (COP) at the Tetelestai Worship Centre in Kumasi. He observed that, despite the enormous influence wielded by these institutions, they had largely operated independently, limiting their collective impact on national transformation. The address was delivered on behalf of the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene.
Mr. Boadi stressed that collaboration among these bodies must be grounded in truthfulness, trust, accountability, integrity, and good stewardship. He outlined the roles of political leaders in formulating and implementing policies, chiefs in preserving cultural values and serving as custodians of the land, and religious leaders in shaping the moral and spiritual character of the people. "When these institutions pursue a common vision based on honesty and service, they become a powerful force for peace, social cohesion, and national development," he stated.
He urged leaders in all sectors to prioritize the national interest over personal and partisan considerations, providing leadership that inspires confidence among citizens. He also encouraged traditional rulers who profess the Christian faith to serve as role models in their communities by promoting peace, justice, discipline, and ethical leadership.
The conference, themed 'The Royal Unleashed to Transform the Palace through the Gospel and the Power of the Holy Spirit,' attracted traditional authorities, political leaders, and members of The Church of Pentecost from across the Ashanti Region. Scriptural references for the event were drawn from Acts 8:4-8, Ecclesiastes 8:4, and Isaiah 49:23.
Other speakers, including Apostle Michael Agyen Brefo, Suame Area Head of The Church of Pentecost; Nana Nkansa Boadu Ayeboafo, Agric-Nzemahene; Nana Dwamena Akenten II, Offinsohene; and Elder Nana Kwadwo Gyasi, Chairman of the Suame Area Royals Committee of the Church, emphasized the necessity for Christianity and chieftaincy to collaborate in promoting peace, unity, and community development.
The conference featured vibrant cultural displays, with performances of gospel music, kete, and fontomfrom drumming symbolizing the harmonious coexistence of Christian faith and Ghanaian cultural heritage. Traditional leaders, along with members of the congregation, participated in singing and dancing, underscoring the church's recognition of culture as a vital component of worship and community engagement.