Kufuor backs July 1 as National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving

Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has thrown his support behind a proposal to observe July 1st, Ghana’s Republic Day as a National Day of Prayers and Thanksgiving. He described the initiative as both timely and meaningful, highlighting its potential to foster unity, reflection, and gratitude.

Kufuor made these remarks at his residence in Accra on May 30, during a visit by members of the event’s planning committee. The committee had called on him to formally invite him to the occasion and to seek his blessing for the proposed celebration.

Reflecting on the significance of July 1st, the former President said it marked the day Ghana became truly sovereign. “Yes, we had gained independence from Britain in 1957, but our head of state was still the Queen of England,” he explained. “It wasn’t until 1st July that Ghana gave itself its first President. That was when we truly became a sovereign nation.”

Kufuor commended former President John Mahama, who introduced the idea, for recognizing the day not only as a celebration of Ghana’s republican status but also as an opportunity for spiritual reflection. “If President Mahama thought it fit to use the day to thank God and pray for inclusive prosperity, then I agree with him,” he stated. “It is a powerful gesture.”

He expressed hope that the day would be used by Ghanaians to ask for divine guidance and to renew their commitment to national development. “We will celebrate it as a day to thank the Almighty who made Ghana what it is and who, I’m sure, will prosper Ghana into becoming what it should be; a land of plenty, happiness, and fairness for all,” he said.

Kufuor also emphasized the need for unity in governance, calling for an end to divisions along ethnic, religious, and political lines. “Whether you are from tribe A, B or C, that should be secondary. Humanity should be central,” he asserted.

He further reminded leaders to govern with fairness and empathy, noting that elected officials are custodians of the people’s will.

The planning committee thanked him for the endorsement and promised an inclusive, interfaith national event that reflects Ghana’s values and diversity.