“Prayer Without Patriotism Is Hollow” – UG Lecturer Slams Ghana’s National Day of Thanksgiving

Dr. Kwame Asah-Asante, political scientist and senior lecturer at the University of Ghana, has issued a bold critique of Ghana’s National Day of Prayer and Thanksgiving, cautioning that the event could become a ceremonial façade if not anchored in patriotism, accountability, and moral leadership.

Speaking on JoyNews’ AM Show, Dr. Asah-Asante questioned the sincerity of the state-led prayer service held on Tuesday, July 1, calling on political and religious leaders to back their prayers with action.

“There’s nothing wrong with national prayer,” he said. “But prayer without hard work, discipline, and accountability is meaningless. If we don't back our gratitude with a strong commitment to integrity and national development, it’s simply a waste of time.”

While praising the visual beauty of the event, he expressed concern over what he called moral hypocrisy, suggesting that many of the very individuals offering prayers are complicit in corruption and poor governance.

“Beautiful programme—but let’s be real. The same people who pray go on to embezzle funds. We hand over cathedrals to men of God, and they leave us with debt and disappointment. What’s the point of that prayer?”

Dr. Asah-Asante further criticized the silence of religious leaders, saying their failure to hold politicians accountable contributes to Ghana’s stagnation.

“If men of God can’t speak truth to power, then who will? Too many of them choose praise over principle. That must change. The pulpit should never become a shield for political misconduct.”

■ Holidays or Hindrance?

The lecturer also took aim at Ghana’s overcrowded public holiday calendar, which he argues is crippling national productivity. Comparing Ghana’s 14 holidays to countries like the UK (8), Canada (9), Germany (9), and even the Netherlands (2), he called for a serious rethink.

“Boxing Day? Constitutional Day? New Year’s Day? Some of these holidays are unnecessary. We need to cut back and focus on building the nation. Even Nkrumah’s birthday is already symbolically captured in Independence Day.”

■ A Call to Action

For Dr. Asah-Asante, true gratitude goes beyond ceremonial prayers. It requires a national culture rooted in honesty, responsibility, and sacrifice.

“Prayer is powerful—but only when it reflects our values in practice. Without patriotism and discipline, our words are empty. Let us commit to defending this country—not just with our lips, but with our actions.”

His remarks have sparked widespread discussion about the role of faith, leadership, and civic responsibility in Ghana’s development journey.