Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has emphasized the crucial need for leaders to uphold the highest standards of ethics and morality, urging for a recommitment and dedication to placing Ghana’s interests at the forefront of all actions.
The Speaker stressed that the nation’s moral fabric and desired national development can only be strengthened by not just changing minds but also changing hearts.
He lamented the growing disconnection between leadership and ethical behavior, expressing concern over society’s acceptance of traits such as weaponized cruelty, greed, corruption, and self-serving attitudes, which have overridden traditional moral values.
“Regrettably, virtues like empathy, truthfulness, humility, and kindness are now perceived as weak principles of leadership,” he said.
In a formal communication to members of Parliament on Thursday, 27th July, 2023 the Speaker highlighted the speech he delivered at the recently held National Development Conference on Wednesday, July 26.
The conference, hosted by the Church of Pentecost, was centered on the theme “Moral Vision and National Development” and brought together major stakeholders in national development to engage in a constructive dialogue to shape Ghana’s moral fiber.
Extending his gratitude to the Pentecost church, particularly acknowledging Chairman and Vision Bearer, Apostle Eric Kyamekye, the Speaker recognized the church’s role in conceptualizing and realizing the conference’s national character.
The Speaker emphasized that the purpose of the Church extends beyond soul-saving; and involves the transformation of society and the nation.
He urged all citizens, irrespective of their professions, to contribute to the nation’s prosperity and enhance its image.
Major stakeholders, including representatives from the three organs of the State, the Vice President of the Republic, H.E Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, and Former Presidents John A. Kuffour and John Dramani Mahama, participated in the secular discourse to impact the nation’s moral vision.
Mr. Bagbin encouraged citizens to recognize the broader calling that extends beyond religious institutions, urging them to approach their respective professions with diligence, sacrifice, hard work, and passion.
He stressed the importance of considering the long term, even eternity, and the future generation in decision-making.
The National Development Conference, 2023, served as a significant platform for stakeholders to reflect and dialogue, creating a framework that would substantially shape Ghana’s moral development.
