Winneba: The successful and peaceful conduct of the 2024 elections demonstrated the resilience of Ghana's democratic institutions, ensuring that the voices of the people have been heard and respected. Venerable Father Aaron Moses Kwamina Eduah, Priest in-Charge of Saint John the Divine Anglican Church, Winneba, stated this during a sermon delivered at a thanksgiving service in Winneba.
According to Ghana News Agency, the service, themed 'Celebration of the Goodness of God,' was organized by both the Christian and Muslim communities in Effutu in collaboration with Effutu Dream. Hosted by St. John the Divine Anglican Church, the service aimed to thank God for the successful election, honor significant milestones, and acknowledge the collective efforts that led to peace, prosperity, and progress within Effutu. It also provided a moment for reflection on how the peaceful electoral process serves as a foundation for national development.
The event recognized Osahene Alexander Ato Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, Member of Parliament (MP) for Effutu and Minority Leader of Parliament, for his contributions to the legislative process and ensuring the upholding of democracy. Ven. Fr. Eduah emphasized that the 2024 election was pivotal for maintaining peace and democracy in Ghana, a country long regarded as a beacon of stability in Africa.
Ven. Fr. Eduah highlighted that the peaceful election process reflected the maturity of Ghana's democracy and its commitment to fostering regional peace and stability. He called on all Ghanaian duty bearers to ensure peace for national cohesion and development. Osahen Afenyo-Markin's win in the parliamentary election was seen as a personal triumph and a testament to the confidence the people of Effutu have in his leadership and commitment to peace and development.
Ven. Fr. Eduah noted Osahen Afenyo-Markin's appointment as Minority Leader of the 9th Parliament, citing his leadership skills and political acumen. Beyond his parliamentary role, Afenyo-Markin has significantly contributed to the Effutu Municipality's development and well-being, earning recognition from the traditional council led by Neenyi Ghartey VII, Paramount Chief of Effutu Traditional Area.
Neenyi Ghartey, also the President of the Effutu Traditional Council, conferred the title of Osahen on Mr. Afenyo-Markin, acknowledging his transformative leadership bridging modern governance and traditional authority. This title underscores the importance of effective leadership and collective efforts for national development.
Ven. Fr. Eduah, also the Archdeacon of Winneba Archdeaconry, listed several achievements in Effutu attributed to Afenyo-Markin, including constructing a Fire Service Station, High Court Complex, Health Insurance office, a 200-bed Capacity Children's Hospital, a Senior Secondary School at New Winneba, and more.
Neenyi Ghartey VII commended the organizers for uniting the community to thank God for the peaceful election and celebrate the infrastructure developments and programs executed by Osahene Afenyo-Markin. Prayers were offered for God's protection and wisdom for the President, MPs, Ministers of State, and all duty bearers to execute their duties for the country's betterment.
The service was attended by several ministers of the Gospel and traditional leaders, including Rev. Enoch Twum Aboagye, Apostle Bravery Bonney, Rev. Dr. Wiredu Nkrumah, Bishop Dr. Franklin K. Boadu, Bishop Francis Odoom, and Alhaji Zubairu Kassim.