The General Overseer and leader of the Heaven City Ministry International, Apostle Emmanuel Appiah, has called on the youth to avoid being used by politicians to cause violence before, during, and after this year’s elections. He urged young people to focus on positive pursuits and steer clear of political vigilantism, which threatens the country’s hard-earned democratic stability.
Apostle Appiah made this appeal during the Annual Youth Week Celebration held at the Fumesua Church premises, where a health walk and health screening session were also organized. The screening covered tests for Hepatitis B, blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and several other health concerns, aimed at promoting the well-being of the community’s youth.
Speaking to the gathering, Apostle Appiah stressed the need for peace, urging the youth to be vigilant in safeguarding the country’s democratic credentials. “Violence does not win elections,” he said. “The future of our nation lies in the hands of our youth, and it is crucial for them to avoid being used as tools of chaos. We must all work together to ensure that this year’s election is peaceful, fair, and transparent.”
He further charged the youth to be ambassadors of peace in their respective communities and to vote peacefully. According to him, the role of the youth in fostering peace is paramount, as they represent the future leadership of the nation.
The Youth Coordinator for Heaven City Ministry International, Mr. Prince Asamany, also addressed the congregation, emphasizing the ministry’s goal of spreading the life-giving message of Jesus Christ. He said their mission is to bring those far from God into a personal relationship with Christ, equipping them to enhance not only their own lives but also the lives of others.
“Our aim is to touch lives and add value to them,” Mr. Asamany said. “We want to see young people grow in faith, become responsible citizens, and contribute positively to their communities. Through this, we can ensure a peaceful society that thrives on love, unity, and shared progress.”
The Annual Youth Week celebration also featured a health walk, which saw many young people actively participating in an early morning exercise around the Fumesua township. The event was crowned with a comprehensive health screening session, where participants had the opportunity to check their health status, including tests for blood pressure, blood sugar, and Hepatitis B.
Apostle Appiah reminded the youth that their health is just as important as their moral and spiritual well-being. He urged them to take care of their bodies and minds to remain strong and focused on their future endeavors. “You cannot build a future if you are unhealthy,” he noted. “Take care of yourselves so that you can live to see the fruits of your labor.”
As the country gears up for this year’s general elections, Apostle Emmanuel Appiah’s call for peace resonates with many religious and civil society leaders who have expressed concerns about the potential for electoral violence. His message encourages the youth to embrace peace and refuse any involvement in activities that could lead to unrest or instability.
In his closing remarks, Apostle Appiah expressed his hope that the youth of Ghana will lead by example, promoting peace and upholding the democratic values that have held the nation together. He reiterated that “the strength of a democracy is seen in how peacefully it conducts its elections. Let us all play our part in ensuring a peaceful process.”
As the youth left the celebration, the message was clear – they have a crucial role to play in ensuring that the upcoming elections are peaceful, and it starts with rejecting violence and promoting unity.
By Alex Nti (Despite Media)