Protect freedom of worship, prevent faith-based discrimination — Mahama charges Ayariga

President John Dramani Mahama has tasked newly appointed Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mahama Ayariga, with safeguarding religious freedom and preventing discrimination based on faith or ethnicity. The directive came during Mahama's swearing-in ceremony of Ayariga at Jubilee House on August 29, 2026.

Mahama emphasized that Ghana's religious and cultural diversity should be used to bolster national unity, not to cause division. He stressed that the government must always protect freedom of worship, promote tolerance, and prevent any citizen from being sidelined due to their faith, ethnicity, or ethnic ties.

Ayariga's role in chieftaincy and religious affairs demands wisdom, patience, and impartiality. Traditional authorities are indispensable partners in development and guardians of Ghana's cultural heritage, according to Mahama. He also recognized the vital contributions of religious organizations in areas such as education, healthcare, social protection, peacebuilding, and national cohesion.

Mahama called on the minister to interact with traditional and religious institutions respectfully and fairly while ensuring the government maintains impartiality in its dealings with them.

The President reminded Ayariga that taking the oath of office is more than a mere formality; it is a solemn pledge to serve Ghanaians with integrity, humility, fairness, and fidelity to the Constitution. Mahama also highlighted that public office necessitates officials to prioritize national interests over personal convenience, political considerations, and sectional interests.