The National Peace Council has called on Ghanaians to embrace diversity and respect differing opinions as a cornerstone for national cohesion and sustainable development.
The appeal was made by Reverend Father Dr. Anthony Naah during Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations in Kumasi, where he emphasised that Ghana’s social, cultural, and religious differences should be seen as strengths rather than sources of division.
“Respect for diverse views and the willingness to accommodate differing opinions are essential for national cohesion and sustainable development,” he said.
Rev. Fr. Dr. Naah noted that religion, when practised properly, fosters love, tolerance, and harmony, cautioning against its misuse to incite division or extremism.
He urged citizens to uphold values such as mutual respect, dialogue, fairness, and compassion, particularly at a time when global tensions, hate speech, and divisive tendencies are increasingly amplified through technology.
Speaking on the theme, “Promoting Peaceful Coexistence and Unity in Diversity,” he described the message as timely, given growing security concerns across West Africa and the need to safeguard Ghana’s peace. He warned that violent extremism and intolerance—especially when fuelled by religious or ideological differences—pose serious threats to national stability.
“No religion advocates violence,” he said, adding that all faiths promote peaceful coexistence, generosity, hospitality, and respect for authority.
He called for collective efforts from citizens, religious leaders, and institutions to build trust and strengthen relationships across ethnic and religious lines.
Rev. Fr. Dr. Naah also encouraged Ghanaians to use occasions such as Eid-ul-Fitr to deepen bonds with people of other faiths through acts of kindness and cooperation, urging the public to celebrate responsibly while upholding the values of peace, patience, tolerance, and compassion.
