Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams, Founder and General Overseer of Action Chapel International (ACI), has underscored the critical importance of justice in achieving and maintaining lasting peace in Ghana. Speaking passionately at the National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service held at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), on Sunday, he delivered a compelling message on the profound connection between justice and peace, urging leaders and citizens alike to prioritize justice in their endeavors.
Duncan-Williams emphasized that true peace transcends the mere absence of war or conflict. According to the revered Archbishop, peace that endures is fundamentally anchored in the presence of justice. “Justice is one of the things that secures peace, and where there is no justice, there will never be peace,” he declared with conviction. He elaborated further, noting that it is a widely accepted principle that the absence of war does not automatically signify peace. “The presence of justice is what guarantees peace. So where there’s no justice, there can never be peace,” he reiterated, drawing attention to the need for fairness and equity in all aspects of governance and societal interaction.
The Archbishop’s message carried a direct appeal to President John Dramani Mahama, as well as to all Ghanaians, to make justice a guiding principle in their decisions and actions. He reminded his audience that justice is the cornerstone of a harmonious and equitable society, one where every individual is treated fairly, and the rule of law prevails. His words were a clarion call for collective responsibility in fostering a nation that upholds justice for the betterment of all its citizens.
Duncan-Williams delved into the essence of justice, articulating its dual role as both a reward for good deeds and a deterrent against wrongdoing. “The meaning of justice is rewarding people for the good done and punishing people for the evil done,” he explained. This balanced approach to justice, he noted, is essential for building trust and ensuring fairness in governance and society. By rewarding positive contributions and holding individuals accountable for harmful actions, a society can create an environment where peace and unity thrive.
The Archbishop’s remarks resonated deeply with the congregation and the broader audience, many of whom recognized the timeliness and relevance of his message. His call to action extended beyond government leaders to include every Ghanaian, emphasizing that justice is not solely the responsibility of those in power but a shared commitment among all members of society. Upholding justice, he suggested, is a collective effort that requires the active participation of citizens in holding leaders accountable and promoting fairness in their communities.
The National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service at UPSA served as a platform for reflection and spiritual renewal, drawing attention to the nation’s challenges while inspiring hope and action. Duncan-Williams’ address highlighted the moral and ethical dimensions of justice, urging attendees to align their values with principles that promote equity and peace. His message was a reminder that justice is not an abstract concept but a practical and necessary foundation for societal progress.
As Ghana continues to navigate its path toward development and stability, the Archbishop’s words hold significant weight. Justice, as he articulated, is a prerequisite for peace, and peace, in turn, is essential for national growth and prosperity. The interdependence of these principles underscores the need for deliberate efforts to address injustices and foster an inclusive society where every individual’s rights are respected.
The Archbishop’s appeal for justice comes at a time when Ghana, like many nations, faces complex social and economic challenges. Issues such as inequality, corruption, and inadequate access to resources have underscored the importance of fairness and accountability in governance. Duncan-Williams’ message serves as a timely reminder of the moral imperatives that should guide the nation’s leaders and citizens in addressing these challenges.
Beyond his address, Duncan-Williams’ advocacy for justice reflects his longstanding commitment to promoting peace and unity in Ghana and beyond. As a respected spiritual leader, his influence extends across religious and social boundaries, making his call for justice a unifying message for all Ghanaians. His emphasis on fairness and accountability resonates with the core values of many religious and cultural traditions, reinforcing the universal importance of justice in human affairs.
The Archbishop’s remarks also invite broader discussions on the role of justice in nation-building. His articulation of justice as both a reward for good deeds and a response to wrongdoing provides a framework for evaluating the effectiveness of policies and actions in promoting societal well-being. By prioritizing justice, Ghana can create a more inclusive and equitable society, where every individual has the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from the nation’s progress.
Duncan-Williams’ message is a call to action for leaders at all levels to integrate justice into their decision-making processes. Whether in government, business, or community leadership, the principles of fairness and accountability must guide actions and policies to foster trust and promote social cohesion. His emphasis on justice as a guarantor of peace underscores the need for a collective commitment to these values, recognizing that the well-being of the nation depends on the equitable treatment of all its citizens.
As the National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of the critical role of justice in achieving peace. Duncan-Williams’ powerful message served as both a challenge and an inspiration, urging Ghanaians to embrace justice as a foundation for national unity and progress. His words remind us that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of fairness, equity, and accountability in every aspect of society.
