By Samuel LARTEY (Prof)
The question of whether God chooses leaders for nations is both a theological and cultural debate, with significant relevance in Ghana’s political landscape. This debate has shaped political attitudes, influenced voter behaviour, and driven narratives about leadership across the country’s history.
In Ghana, religious beliefs often intertwine with politics, reflecting a society that is deeply spiritual and rooted in cultural traditions. The blend of faith and politics has left a mark on Ghana’s development, impacting economic policies, governance, and public opinion on leaders.
This article explores the theme of divine intervention in leadership, traces its origins in Ghana, and examines how the concept has influenced political behaviour, using facts, dates, and financial data that reflect the role of spirituality in Ghanaian politics.
Prophesy in Electoral Destinies
Pastor Mensa Otabil, speaking at the International Central Gospel Church’s (ICGC) Greater Works conference to a congregation of believers and civic leaders, asserted that God does not directly choose leaders; instead, leadership is determined by the choices of the people.
He emphasised to his audience that while faith is essential, the responsibility of selecting capable leaders lies with human decision-making and active participation. He emphasises that leadership outcomes are shaped by people’s choices and actions rather than divine intervention alone.
Faith and prophecies significantly impact Ghana’s electoral behaviour by shaping the attitudes, beliefs, and decisions of both voters and political candidates. In Ghana, a deeply religious society, many people rely on faith-based guidance and prophetic messages during elections, often seeking direction from pastors, traditional leaders, and prophets. These spiritual figures can wield considerable influence, as many Ghanaians believe that divine intervention can determine the outcomes of elections.
Prophecies, especially those delivered by prominent religious leaders, sometimes predict election winners or political events, which can sway public opinion and heighten emotions among supporters. Such prophecies may enhance a candidate’s popularity or create anxiety and scepticism, depending on the prophet’s credibility and followers’ faith in the prophecy.
Furthermore, political candidates often publicly display their religious beliefs, attending church services, consulting religious leaders, or seeking public prayers to appeal to the religious values of voters. This practice underscores the expectation that leaders should be divinely endorsed and morally sound, resonating with the public’s desire for leaders who align with their faith-based values.
While this faith-driven influence fosters high voter engagement, it can also lead to division if competing prophecies arise or if partisan alignment with religious institutions becomes too pronounced. This reliance on spiritual insights reflects a broader interplay between faith and politics in Ghana, where religion shapes not only personal beliefs but also public and political life, especially during elections.
Ghana’s Belief in Divine Leadership
Ghana’s history is rich with traditional beliefs about leadership that predates modern state politics. Traditionally, many Ghanaian ethnic groups held that chieftains and rulers were appointed by ancestral spirits or divine forces. Leaders were believed to be spiritual figures, with their authority stemming from divine approval.
For example, among the Akan, the king (or Asantehene in the Ashanti Kingdom) was seen as a custodian of the land with responsibilities granted by both ancestors and a higher power. This view positioned traditional leaders as both political figures and spiritual guides, roles believed to be sanctioned by God.
As Ghana transitioned into colonial rule, the notion of divine leadership began to adapt, integrating Christian and Islamic teachings with traditional beliefs. With the spread of Christianity and Islam, the understanding of leadership as ordained by God gained prominence, shaping public expectations of politicians and national leaders. As Ghana gained independence in 1957, leaders like Kwame Nkrumah spoke of a “divine mission” to lead Ghana to freedom, merging the ideas of political and spiritual liberation.
The Role of Religion in Shaping Political Narratives
Today, religion plays a central role in Ghana’s political culture. Approximately 71.3% of Ghanaians identify as Christians, while 19.9% are Muslim (Ghana Statistical Service, 2021). Political candidates frequently emphasise their religious beliefs, seeking public favour by affirming their faith.
This religious rhetoric is not just for show; it taps into a widespread belief that leaders are chosen or at least blessed by God. According to a 2019 Afrobarometer survey, 72% of Ghanaians believe in divine intervention in leadership, underscoring the public’s expectation for spiritually guided governance.
This sentiment was evident in Ghana’s 2020 election. Both President Nana Akufo-Addo and opposition leader John Mahama made public displays of prayer and religious commitment, appealing to voters’ faith and the concept of divine endorsement. Such strategies reflect a wider phenomenon in Ghanaian politics: an effort to link political legitimacy with God’s will.
Political Narratives and Economic Impacts
Religion’s role in leadership has also influenced economic decisions in Ghana. Leaders often justify policies by invoking divine will, positioning themselves as stewards entrusted by God. For instance, Akufo-Addo’s “Ghana Beyond Aid” vision, aimed at reducing foreign dependency and fostering self-reliance, was presented as a mandate that resonates with the religious idea of self-sufficiency and stewardship over the nation’s resources.
While the policy’s impact remains debated, Ghana’s economy grew from a GDP of $64.9 billion in 2016 to $72 billion in 2022 (World Bank data), an achievement some attribute to visionary leadership guided by a sense of divine purpose.
On the other hand, some argue that relying too heavily on “God’s will” for leadership has economic costs. High levels of youth unemployment, inflation rates peaking at 40.1% in October 2023, and a public debt that reached GH₵ 387 billion in 2023 reflect the need for pragmatic policies and accountability in governance. When economic challenges are framed as part of a divine plan, it can discourage critical discourse on leadership accountability and economic reforms.
The Influence of Faith on Electoral Behaviour
Faith-based beliefs also affect voting patterns in Ghana. A 2016 survey by the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD) revealed that 60% of voters considered a candidate’s religious affiliation and public faith expression an important factor in their choice.
This reliance on religious cues has led to the phenomenon of “prophet endorsements,” where religious leaders predict electoral outcomes, influencing public opinion. These endorsements have often sparked controversy, particularly when they don’t align with election results. Such instances highlight the tension between the spiritual beliefs of the electorate and the democratic process, raising questions about the limits of faith in political judgment.
For example, during the 2020 elections, numerous pastors and spiritual figures predicted victory for various candidates, each citing divine insight. When results didn’t align with these predictions, it led to public disillusionment with the practice, sparking a debate about the role of religion in politics.
The Socioeconomic Consequences of Divine Leadership Narratives
The concept of divine leadership also impacts Ghanaian society on a broader level. Leaders viewed as “chosen by God” tend to inspire public loyalty but can face fewer demands for transparency.
This leniency may contribute to Ghana’s struggles with corruption, as some leaders use religious rhetoric to deflect criticism or justify policies that may not serve the public interest. The 2022 Corruption Perceptions Index ranked Ghana 72nd out of 180 countries, underscoring the persistent challenge of accountability in governance.
Financially, the narrative of divine leadership can affect public support for government policies. In 2023, the government introduced a controversial debt exchange program as part of its response to an economic crisis.
Although necessary for securing an International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout, it was met with resistance, with some critics arguing that it conflicted with the government’s commitment to serving the people. Religious leaders and civil society groups expressed concerns, pointing out that divinely inspired leadership should prioritize people’s welfare over economic adjustments that could lead to hardship.
Conclusion
The belief that God chooses leaders for Ghana reflects a blend of religious conviction, cultural heritage, and historical experience. While it can inspire trust and unity, this narrative also presents challenges, particularly in holding leaders accountable and navigating Ghana’s economic needs.
As Ghana moves forward, balancing faith with reasoned political engagement could be key to fostering sustainable leadership that respects both divine principles and democratic accountability.
Ultimately, whether one views Ghanaian leaders as chosen by God or elected by the people, the true measure of leadership lies in its ability to serve the nation’s welfare, uphold justice, and address the socioeconomic needs of all Ghanaians.
