A former government spokesperson has called for an apology and possible disciplinary action following remarks by the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Free Zones Authority directed at the Chairman of the Church of Pentecost.
In a public statement issued on 24 April, Palgrave Boakye-Danquah condemned comments made by Free Zones CEO Mary Awusi, describing them as “denigrating” and an affront to the Christian community.
Boakye-Danquah said the remarks, which were in response to comments by Pentecost Chairman Eric Nyamekye on illegal mining, amounted to “an attack not only on the person of the Chairman but a slur against the entire Christian community in Ghana.”
“The Chairman’s position on illegal mining reflects the moral conscience of the Church and the legitimate voice of millions of Ghanaians concerned about our environment and future,” he said.
The former spokesperson is demanding an immediate public apology from Awusi to both Nyamekye and the Christian community.
He also called on the Office of the Chief of Staff to clarify whether the CEO’s conduct breaches the Code of Conduct for Public Officers and to outline any potential sanctions.
“Public officials must uphold dignity, respect and tolerance in national discourse,” Boakye-Danquah said.
Background to dispute
The controversy follows comments made by Nyamekye during the Church’s General Conference, where he raised concerns about the environmental impact of illegal mining, also known as galamsey, including its effect on water bodies and religious practices such as baptism.
Awusi, speaking in a media interview, criticised the cleric’s remarks and warned that future interventions could be treated as political if they cross certain lines—comments that have since triggered backlash from sections of the public.
Boakye-Danquah argued that voices from faith-based institutions should be respected when they engage on national issues.
“The Christian community deserves respect, not ridicule, when it speaks to matters of national interest,” he added.
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