Archbishop Duncan-Williams Urges Caution Over Toxic Speech Amid Election Season

On Sunday, August 18, 2024, Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams delivered a poignant message at Action Chapel International on Spintex Road, Accra, emphasizing the detrimental effects of negative words on the atmosphere. He addressed the congregation with a sense of urgency, highlighting the spiritual and emotional pollution caused by careless speech.

During his sermon, Archbishop Duncan-Williams deviated from his planned topic of “the ultimate sacrifice” to address what he described as a “toxic” atmosphere.

He expressed concern over the widespread practice of negative speech, particularly during the election period, which he noted is common not only in Ghana but across Africa. 

“Apart from sacrifices and rituals that are being performed, which is the normal thing that happens during every four years when we hold elections, not just in Ghana but across Africa. It’s a practice that goes on,” he stated.

The Archbishop warned that many believers are unknowingly contributing to this pollution by speaking curses over various aspects of their lives and the lives of their loved ones. “Some of the most dangerous things happening is believers are cursing the atmosphere,” he said. 

“We are speaking words that are causing pollution in the atmosphere, and a lot of believers and people hearing me, you are cursing your wife, you are cursing your children, you are cursing your loved ones, you are cursing your works, the works of your hand, you are cursing your finances, you are cursing your health, and you are cursing the people you love and care about.”

Archbishop Duncan-Williams emphasized the power of words and their ability to shape outcomes and circumstances. He urged the congregation to be mindful of their speech, reminding them that words carry significant power. 

“You talk without understanding the rules of engagement. You talk not knowing that the words you speak carry power and it determines certain outcomes in your life and your circumstances and in the life of your loved ones,” he cautioned.

His message served as a call to action for believers to become more aware of their language and its impact, encouraging them to foster a more positive and uplifting environment through their words.