The Seventh Day Adventist Church (SDA) in Ghana has reaffirmed its decision not to participate in the December 7 election, despite President Akufo-Addo’s appeals to reconsider.
The Church’s stance is rooted in its religious beliefs, which hold that Saturday, the Sabbath day, is a day of worship, rest, and communion with God. Voting on this day is seen as conflicting with these beliefs and the sanctity of the Sabbath.
The SDA recognizes the importance of civic responsibility and the right to vote, but believes that this right should not compromise their religious convictions.
The Church has consistently advocated for a change in the election date to accommodate their members’ religious observance, allowing all citizens to participate fully in the democratic process without conflicting with their faith.
The SDA’s official position emphasizes the importance of respecting the diversity of opinions within its membership while maintaining the Church’s longstanding conviction on the sanctity of the Sabbath.
The Church urges its members to prayerfully ensure that their decisions on voting are consistent with their Adventist beliefs.
In essence, the SDA is seeking a balance between civic responsibility and religious duty, advocating for a change in the election date to accommodate their religious observance and allow their members to participate in the democratic process without compromising their faith.