Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, has called for support for the nation’s leaders with prayers to enable them to uphold the truth and rule justly.

He said it must be appreciated that without divine guidance and help, not much could be achieved. The Asantehene, who was worshipping with the Asante Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana (PCG) at a special New Year service held at the forecourt of his Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, said whatever modest impact he had made had come through God’s grace.

He said he had over the years depended on God and would continue to depend on Him for direction as he worked to bring progress to the people.

The service was part of a deliberate effort by the church to deepen its relationship with traditional rulers under what it calls “Mission to the palace”.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu praised the church for its significant contribution to the nation’s development, citing the establishment of schools, health facilities and social amenities.

He said the Presbyterian Church had been known for its affinity with discipline and urged it to do more to help purge the society of the growing indiscipline and lawlessness, particularly among the youth.

It should focus on assisting to turn people away from evil and bad conduct.

Otumfuo Osei Tutu noted that meaningful socio-economic development could not be made where people choose to live outside the norms of acceptable social behaviour.

Reverend Dr Fred Deegbe, General Secretary of the Christian Council of Ghana (CCG), appealed to Ghanaians to cherish the values of modesty, humility and compassion for the poor.

Rev Dr Kwabena Opuni-Frimpong, Chairperson of the Presbytery, said they would continue to work closely with chiefs to address challenges facing the society.