The General Superintendent of Assemblies of God, Ghana, Rev. Stephen Yenusom Wengam, has stated that pastors who intend to actively participate in partisan politics must resign from their ministerial positions in accordance with the church’s constitution and code of conduct.
He explained that the policy applies to ministers seeking to contest political party primaries or engage in other active partisan political activities.
According to Rev. Wengam, the rule is designed to protect the unity of the church and prevent political differences from creating divisions among members of congregations.
Speaking in an interview with Accra-based Channel One, he said the church’s position differs from that of some Christian denominations that permit their ministers to participate in partisan politics while maintaining their pastoral responsibilities.
“Assemblies of God, it can’t happen. You must resign as the pastor of the church,” he said.
Rev. Wengam cited the 2024 general election period as an example of the policy’s implementation, disclosing that two pastors under his leadership resigned after deciding to contest political party primaries.
He emphasised that the church does not prohibit pastors from pursuing their political ambitions but requires them to relinquish their ministerial positions before entering active partisan politics.
“It’s a calling, but we are saying that lay down your tools as a pastor. And then pursue your calling,” he added.
The General Superintendent explained that the policy is intended to ensure that people with different political affiliations can worship together without partisan differences undermining fellowship within the church.
His comments come ahead of the 2026 World Assemblies of God Congress, scheduled to take place in Ghana from October 14 to 16.
The international gathering is expected to bring together church leaders from across the world and will mark the first time the congress is being hosted on the African continent.
