The executive president of the Ghana Baptist Convention (GBC) has stated that maintaining peaceful coexistence among citizens is a responsibility that everyone in the country must share.

Reverend Dr. Enoch Nii Naarh Thompson stated that peace can be achieved if all citizens regard themselves as one people, regardless of religious or political differences.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 61st Session of the Ghana Baptist Convention, themed "Holy Spirit Power of Kingdom Expansion," he said the GBC is educating its members to be conscious of their contributions to the country's peace and to avoid actions that could cause conflict.

He mentioned that GBC ministers are actively teaching their congregations to refrain from divisive speech and to consider how they react to differing opinions.

Rev. Thompson also noted that while human beings can put strategies in place to ensure security, God, as the ultimate overseer, has the final say. He expressed hope that God, who has been gracious to Ghana over the years, would continue to show mercy, especially before, during, and after elections.

He argued that addressing issues based on tribal lines is baseless, given the prevalence of inter-tribal marriages in Ghana.

Reverend Dr Enoch Nii Naarh Thompson urged Ghanaians to vote based on the credibility of candidates rather than tribal affiliations or political bias.

Rev. Dr. Cyril G.K. Fayose, General Secretary of the Christian Council of Ghana (CCG), also addressed the gathering, reminding Ghanaians that 2024 is a significant year in the country's political life.

He highlighted that the upcoming Presidential and Parliamentary elections in December will be influenced by several factors, including religion, ethnicity, youth unemployment, illegal mining, and misinformation on social media.

Rev. Fayose announced the launch of the Eminent Persons Group and the Ethical Leadership Conferences, which aim to ensure peace and justice before, during, and after the elections.

The Eminent Persons Group will monitor the electoral process, while the Ethical Leadership Conference will educate key stakeholders, including political party activists, youth leaders, faith-based organizations, the Electoral Commission, and security agencies.

He stressed that these efforts are vital to maintaining peace and cohesion in Ghana, ensuring the nation's continued strength and growth after the elections.

Reverend Dr Enoch Nii Naarh Thompson also urged all Ghanaian pastors and members of the Ghana Baptist Convention to support and participate in these initiatives when called upon in their communities.