A Senior Pastor of the International Central Gospel Church (ICGC) Spintex Road, Rev Anthony Cudjoe, has challenged the prevailing sentiment among some Ghanaians that the country should be led exclusively by a Christian leader.
In a thought-provoking sermon delivered recently, the pastor argued that competence and divine will, rather than religious affiliation, should determine leadership.
He suggested that a Muslim could equally lead Ghana to prosperity.
Drawing parallels from biblical history, Rev Anthony Cudjoe cited the example of Cyrus the Great, a Persian king who was not a Jew but was called ‘my anointed’ by God and played a pivotal role in the restoration of Israel.
He said, “Why should God call Cyrus my anointed? He was not a Jew…Cyrus was from Persia, the kind of people who have controlled Israel.”
“Then it got to this man’s turn and God used him to restore everything to Israel. And God said I am not going to use any Cane but Cyrus is my anointed, my chosen one,” he explained.
Rev Cudjoe’s message is a call to look beyond religious labels and consider the broader capabilities and divine purpose that individuals might bring to leadership roles in Ghana.
He said, “Sometimes you hear Ghanaians who are saying we want a Christian leader, we want a Christian leader. A Muslim can lead this nation, and Ghana could be better.”
“If God wants to do it, he will use anything,” he stated, emphasizing the potential for inclusivity and unity in governance.
Pastor Cudjoe further encouraged his congregation to pray for softening hearts and transformation among leaders, regardless of their background, to foster a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.
“We are going to pray that the one you think is weak will be strengthened, the difficult one will be softened. The wicked will be changed. The enemy should become indifferent. That somebody who is not for you will also decide not to be against you,” he urged.
The sermon appears to be a direct response to claims by political leaders who mounted the pulpit during Easter to urge voters to only vote for Christian leaders in the impending election.
His call has sparked discussions on religious tolerance and the qualities that constitute effective leadership, reminding citizens of the importance of embracing diversity and focusing on shared goals for national betterment.