Bishop Dr Agyei Lawson urges religious leaders to use their influence to protect Ghana’s peace

Bishop Dr Agyei Lawson, speaking on behalf of the Christian community and the Chairman of the Christian Council of Ghana, has urged religious leaders to use their influence to promote tolerance, dialogue and peaceful coexistence as Ghana seeks to calm religious tensions following a viral incident involving a pastor accused of making derogatory remarks about Prophet Muhammad. Bishop Lawson made the appeal on Friday, August 14 at an engagement between the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), the Police Management Board (POMAB) and religious leaders, where representatives of Ghana’s Christian and Muslim communities discussed the need to prevent recent religious tensions from escalating. The pastor’s arrest followed the circulation of a viral video in which he was allegedly heard making offensive remarks about Prophet Muhammad, a revered prophet of Islam.

The incident sparked strong reactions and raised concerns about the potential impact on Ghana’s longstanding interfaith relations. Against this backdrop, Bishop Lawson said the country’s religious diversity should be treated as a source of strength and not division. “Ghana is a nation blessed with religious diversity, and our ability to live together in peace remains one of our greatest strengths,” he said.

Bishop Lawson placed particular emphasis on the influence religious leaders wield over their congregations and communities. He said that influence carries an important responsibility, especially during periods when religious sensitivities are heightened. “As religious leaders, we occupy positions of tremendous influence in our communities,” he said.

“Our words can promote understanding, tolerance, and unity, especially at times when tensions may arise.” The Christian Council chairman urged religious leaders and their followers to reject conduct capable of deepening religious divisions. “We therefore encourage all of us to reject intolerance, hate speech, provocation, and violence,” he said. Rather than responding to provocative remarks with retaliation, he called for dialogue and mutual respect.

“Instead, promote dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence,” he added. The appeal was aimed at both religious communities, reflecting the need for a balanced response to the current tensions. While Muslims have expressed concern over alleged insults directed at Prophet Muhammad, sections of the Christian com…