In a surprising turn of events, renowned Ghanaian pastor Rev. Isaac Owusu Bempah has distanced himself from the New Patriotic Party (NPP), igniting widespread reactions from political and religious circles. The development has particularly rattled the Wontumi Media Group, a staunch supporter of the ruling party, which expressed deep disappointment over the pastor’s move.
Rev. Owusu Bempah, often regarded as a spiritual adviser to political figures, including high-ranking members of the NPP, has been known for his controversial and outspoken support for the party in past elections. However, his latest public statement has left many questioning the underlying reasons for his sudden detachment from the NPP ahead of the 2024 general elections.
The news of Rev. Bempah’s rejection of the NPP was met with an emotional response from the Wontumi Media Group, owned by Ashanti Regional NPP Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi. In a live broadcast, the media station aired its disappointment with the pastor’s decision, labeling it a betrayal of the alliance he once had with the party.
Wontumi TV presenters, who have often celebrated Rev. Bempah’s prophecies that seemingly favored the NPP, expressed shock at his sudden change of heart. “We are in deep pain. Rev. Owusu Bempah has been like a pillar to the NPP. For him to reject us in this critical time is devastating,” one presenter lamented during a discussion.
Addressing his decision in a recent sermon, Rev. Owusu Bempah did not mince words. He cited spiritual reasons for distancing himself from the NPP, stating that he no longer felt the party was aligned with the will of God. “I have no political affiliations now. God has spoken, and I must follow His voice. I have served the NPP faithfully in the past, but the time has come for me to step away,” he said.
The pastor further indicated that his ministry’s focus would be on preaching repentance and preparing the country for divine intervention, rather than being entangled in political endorsements. “The church is not a tool for politics. We must prioritize the Kingdom of God over all earthly matters,” he added.
Rev. Bempah’s withdrawal of support could be a blow to the NPP, which has relied heavily on his influence, especially among Christian voters. His prophetic declarations in previous elections were seen as crucial to rallying support for the party, and his rejection might trigger uncertainty within the NPP’s religious voter base.
Political analysts have suggested that this move could prompt a realignment of religious support in the country, with the NPP possibly seeking alternative spiritual figures to maintain its influence among faith-based communities. It also raises questions about whether other religious leaders may follow suit in rethinking their relationships with political parties.
Ghanaians have been quick to react to the development on social media. While some NPP loyalists have voiced frustration with Rev. Bempah’s decision, others have commended him for choosing to focus on his spiritual duties. “It’s refreshing to see a man of God prioritize his calling over politics,” one commentator wrote on Twitter. Meanwhile, NPP supporters expressed concerns about the potential impact on the party’s campaign.
In contrast, the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its supporters have welcomed the pastor’s decision, with some suggesting it signifies cracks within the NPP’s broader support base.
As the 2024 general elections approach, the rejection of the NPP by Rev. Owusu Bempah is sure to stir debate in Ghana’s political and religious spheres. Wontumi Media’s emotional reaction reflects the extent to which the pastor’s endorsement has been valued within the NPP. With the political landscape shifting, all eyes will be on how the party navigates this unexpected setback and whether other influential voices in the religious community will follow Rev. Bempah’s lead.
Source: m.dailyadvent.com
