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Emeritus Professor of Politics at the London Metropolitan University, Professor Jeffrey Haynes, has said that Pentecostalism is not undermining Ghana’s democracy but, on balance, strengthening it.
He explained that the growing influence of Pentecostal churches has shaped politics and development in ways that support democratic life.
He was speaking at a lecture in Accra last Wednesday, as part of the Graduate Students Research Conference hosted by the Department for the Study of Religions at the University of Ghana.
It was on the theme “Pentecostalism, Politics and Development in Ghana.”
Prof. Haynes pointed out that over 90 per cent of Ghanaians profess a faith and many expect their religious leaders to comment on political issues.
“What matters is that the Constitution ensures religion does not formally dominate politics and Ghana has been careful to protect that balance,” he stated.
Prof. Haynes admitted there were concerns about prosperity gospel teachings, which some view as non-liberating, and the risk of politics becoming too “Christianised,” which could affect minorities.
He noted that Ghana’s long-standing peaceful relations between Christians and Muslims show that religion had generally served as a stabilising, rather than divisive, force.
As part of the event, a six-member leadership of the Graduate Student Chapter of the Religion Students Association of Ghana was inaugurated.
Amilia Dodoo, who was sworn in as president, said the new executives saw their mandate as a call to serve with integrity and diligence.
“We do not take this responsibility lightly, she told colleagues.
At the heart of this chapter are seven core objectives, from promoting participation in academic events to advocating welfare and professional development to ensuring high standards in research and scholarship.
"Together, we can transform this chapter into a hub of intellectual engagement, a platform of professional growth and a community where scholarship and service intersect," she said.
Reflecting on the conference's theme, Ms Dodoo said the issues discussed showed why the association’s role was crucial.
“Conversations such as those we have had here remind us that religion and society are deeply connected.
As graduate students, we must position ourselves to lead meaningful research and dialogue that address Ghana’s realities,” she said.
