Assemblies of God pastors must resign before entering partisan politics – Rev. Wengam

Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam, the General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana, has declared that pastors seeking to engage in partisan politics must resign from their ministerial roles. This rule, according to Rev. Wengam, is outlined in the church's constitution and code of conduct, aimed at maintaining unity among members.

The requirement applies to ministers who wish to contest political party primaries or assume other active political roles. Speaking on Accra-based Channel One, Rev. Wengam emphasized that the policy is designed to prevent political divisions within congregations, enabling members with differing political affiliations to worship together in unity.

He noted that while this practice is standard for the Assemblies of God internationally, some other Christian denominations permit their ministers to partake in partisan politics. The General Superintendent cited the 2024 election period as an example of the policy's implementation, mentioning that two pastors under his leadership resigned when they decided to participate in political primaries.

Rev. Wengam clarified that the rule does not hinder pastors from pursuing their political aspirations but mandates them to relinquish their pastoral duties before engaging in active partisan politics. He stressed that while it is a calling, pastors must lay down their pastoral tools and pursue their political ambitions separately.

The General Superintendent's remarks precede the 2026 World Assemblies of God Congress, scheduled to take place in Ghana from October 14 to 16. This international gathering, which will mark the first time the congress is hosted on the African continent, is anticipated to draw church leaders from around the world.