Deputy Finance Minister and Member of Parliament for Nhyiaeso, Dr. Stephen Amoah, has challenged Ghanaian youth to rise above religious biases in politics, urging them to support candidates based on competence and party strength rather than faith affiliation.
Speaking at a charged interaction with members of TESCON—the student wing of the New Patriotic Party (NPP)—in Kumasi, Dr. Amoah delivered a passionate appeal for political maturity and strategic thinking, especially among young voters.
Using a vivid analogy, he likened religious bias in political decision-making to seeking medical attention but withholding the full truth.
“How can you go and see the doctor? You have a problem with your knee, your head, your stomach, your soul… and you say, ‘oh doctor, it’s only my head. Can it be cured?’” he asked rhetorically.
He maintained that while he disagrees with those who allow religious preference to influence their vote, the practice is both illogical and detrimental to democratic progress.
“It doesn’t even make sense for somebody to vote based on religion,” he said.
“Until we get to the time and the point that civilisation will be expanded enough for people to know that religion has got nothing to do with leadership.”
Dr. Amoah emphasized that for the NPP to retain power, decisions must be guided by strategy, not sentiment.
“If I’m going to take a decision, I have to make a decision that MPP can win for us. We want power,” he declared.
He also appeared to brush off political pressure and personal threats, asserting his independence and boldness in the face of criticism.
“People are testing me, but it’s a joke… and I can’t even be killed. I don’t care,” he said defiantly.
Describing himself as “OBI President,” Amoah hinted that his personal choices might differ under a different political context but reaffirmed his commitment to the broader goal of securing victory for the NPP.
“OBI and my decision might have been different. But we want power.”
