Kumasi, March 15, GNA- A traditional ruler has advised pastors not to use the pulpits to champion the agenda of political parties. Nana Tabiri Gyansah III, Omanhene of Mpasaso traditional area who gave the advice, cautioned that if pastors allowed churches to be used as platforms for political activities, it could disintegrate their membership.

Nana Gyansah was speaking at a ceremony held in connection with the elevation of the Suame Presbyterian Church to a full district status in Kumasi on Sunday.

He said since members of the church belong to different parties, preaching politics from the pulpits could jeopardise the mission of the church.

Nana Gyansah said it is however the duty of pastors to preach and educate their members on national issues, programmes and policies, to enable them to contribute positively to the country.

Touching on the voters registration exercise scheduled to start on Tuesday, Nana Gyansah said "it was a crucial national exercise". He therefore called on churches to devote time to educate their members on its value, and the need for the eligible ones to turn out to register.

Rt. Reverend Sam Prempeh, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, observed that Suame was a multi-religious community, with a large Muslim population, with many of them from the northern part of the country.

He said "this situation poses a great challenge on you, by converting them into your religion.

Rev. M.O. Nkansah, Minister in-charge and First District Minister of the Suame Presbyterian Church, called on members to intensify their mode of outreach programmes, to help extend and expand the boundaries of the district.