His Eminence Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson, a revered voice in global Catholicism and Chancellor of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences and Social Sciences, has issued a challenge to Ghanaians to actively participate in the nation’s development.

He emphatically stressed that building a prosperous and resilient country is a collective responsibility, not a burden that rests solely on the shoulders of the President or the government.

Speaking on Channel One TV on Monday, July 7, Cardinal Turkson underscored the critical importance of civic duty.

He urged all citizens to recognise and embrace their indispensable role in shaping Ghana’s future, moving beyond the traditional perception of governance.

"Ghana is not the President. The nation and the country Ghana are not just the President, his ministers, the cabinet, the government, and the people who elected them. Different people are elected to different positions," Cardinal Turkson stated, dismantling the often-held belief that national progress is exclusively the domain of political leadership.

He continued, "It is just fair to recognise that nation-building is not only the task of the leadership of the nation but also the citizens and members of the nation."

The Cardinal's remarks resonate deeply within Ghana, a nation of over 34 million people, where civic engagement, while growing, still faces challenges of apathy and over-reliance on political figures.

He stressed that while the state is indeed tasked with promoting development and governance, its efforts can only bear meaningful fruit if individuals also see themselves as active, indispensable contributors.

"Living in a nation or state is the relational context in which we develop everything that we have. On occasions like July 1, we must recognise that everyone has a role to play. Nation-building is not the task of only leadership and government, but everybody," he added, linking his message to recent national events that emphasised unity and collective action.

Cardinal Turkson's call for heightened civic participation comes just days after he addressed the nation during the National Day of Prayer on July 1.

This significant initiative, launched by President John Dramani Mahama, aimed to foster unity, encourage spiritual reflection, and rekindle hope amidst Ghana’s current socio-economic challenges, including high inflation (which stood at 23.1% in May 2025) and ongoing efforts to stabilise the national currency, the Cedi.

The National Day of Prayer brought together a wide cross-section of Ghanaian society, demonstrating a powerful display of national cohesion.

Religious leaders from various faiths, prominent political figures across the spectrum, representatives from civil society organisations, and the general public converged for a day of interfaith prayers.

These prayers centred on crucial national themes: peace, economic recovery, national cohesion, and moral renewal.

The Christian interdenominational service was held at the forecourt of the iconic State House in Accra, while the Islamic prayer session took place simultaneously at the majestic National Mosque, also in the capital, symbolising Ghana's cherished religious harmony.

Cardinal Turkson concluded his message by encouraging Ghanaians to take their civic duties with utmost seriousness.

This extends from their daily contributions to national life – such as adhering to laws, paying taxes, and contributing to community development – to participating thoughtfully and responsibly in the electoral process by choosing leaders who genuinely reflect their values and aspirations for a better Ghana.

His address serves as a timely reminder that true national development is a collaborative journey, requiring dedication and input from every citizen.