By Lawrence Odoom/Phalonzy
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has stepped in to de-escalate mounting tensions between government officials and the Church of Pentecost, following incendiary remarks by Dr. Mary Awusi that provoked widespread public condemnation.
The controversy was sparked when the Chairman of the Church, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, used a recent General Council Meeting to spotlight the devastating scourge of illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, on Ghana’s water bodies.
He lamented that pollution of rivers and streams had reached alarming levels, making it increasingly difficult for some Christian communities to perform baptisms in natural settings.
However, Dr. Awusi’s riposte during a media interview ignited a firestorm after she suggested the revered church leader could be “dealt with” if he persisted in making such statements.
The comment was widely condemned, with many calling for restraint and respect in public discourse.
Addressing a thanksgiving service at Trasacco on Sunday, April 26, Hon. Julius Debrah tendered an unreserved apology to the church on behalf of the government.
He described the remarks as unfortunate and unintentional, appealing for understanding while stressing the longstanding relationship between the state and the church.
According to him, many individuals in government are members of the Church of Pentecost, making it essential to preserve unity and mutual respect despite differences in opinion on national matters.
In a measured and conciliatory response, Apostle Nyamekye dismissed the need for escalation, stating that he held no grudges over the incident.
He indicated that the controversy had, in fact, amplified attention on the environmental concerns he raised.
He encouraged a shift away from the dispute, emphasizing that national conversations especially on issues like galamsey should remain focused on solutions rather than personal disagreements.