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A moment of fraternity in Parliament captured attention on January 22, 2025, during the vetting of George Opare Addo, Minister-designate for Youth Development and Empowerment.
The minority leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, acknowledged Opare Addo as a fellow Freemason, sparking curiosity about the organisation’s influence on Ghanaian public figures. Despite their opposing political affiliations—Opare Addo being a member of the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) and Afenyo-Markin of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP)—their exchange reflected the unity embedded in the Masonic tradition.
The conversation began with a direct question from Afenyo-Markin:
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- Afenyo-Markin: “Are you a Freemason?”
- Opare Addo: “Yes, I’m a Mason.”
This led to a series of symbolic Masonic queries, revealing the fraternity’s values:
- Afenyo-Markin: “Who is your mother?”
- Opare Addo: “Amity.”
- Afenyo-Markin: “In all difficulties and dangers, in whom do you place your trust?”
- Opare Addo: “The Grand Architect of the Universe.”
The responses underscored Freemasonry’s principles of brotherhood, faith, and mutual respect.
Freemasonry’s Influence
Freemasonry, a historic fraternal organisation, emphasises personal development, integrity, and community service. The exchange between the two MPs provided a rare glimpse into the values that unite its members.
Afenyo-Markin, MP for Effutu, has previously expressed that Freemasonry complements his Catholic beliefs, despite some opposition from Catholic leaders who view the fraternity as incompatible with Church teachings.
Prominent Freemasons in Ghana include former President John Agyekum Kufuor, Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, and former National Security Minister Albert Kan Dapaah.
Opare Addo’s Ministerial Vision
Shifting focus to his role, Opare Addo assured Parliament of his commitment to serving Ghanaian youth with inclusivity and effective leadership.
“The day His Excellency nominated me, I urged every Ghanaian youth to believe in the kind of leadership I bring on board. I am not going to be discriminatory. I’m here to serve the Ghanaian youth and no other person,” he stated.
The newly established Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment is expected to address pressing issues such as job creation, skills development, and inclusivity.
Debunking Myths About Freemasonry
While Freemasonry’s presence in public life often stirs intrigue, the organisation has refuted misconceptions about occultism and sinister practices. Leaders of the Grand Lodge of Ghana, including the Grand Master at the time, Most Worshipful Naval Captain Kwadjo Adunkwa Butan, have emphasised that Freemasonry focuses on philanthropy, ethical conduct, and community service.
“We do not possess special powers or have secret gods we worship. Being a Freemason does not give money, power, or fame,” he stated.
A Moment of Unity
The exchange between Opare Addo and Afenyo-Markin highlighted the shared values that transcend political divides and reflect a commitment to service. As the newly nominated minister prepares to take on his role, his Masonic principles of integrity and trust are expected to guide his leadership in addressing the aspirations of Ghanaian youth.
