Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has issued a public apology to the leadership of the Church of Pentecost following controversial remarks by Ghana Free Zones Authority CEO Mary Awusi directed at the church’s chairman, Eric Nyamekye.
Speaking at a gathering where he marked his birthday, Debrah described Awusi’s comments as a “slip” and appealed for forgiveness from the church, emphasising that no offence was intended.
“A few days ago, one of our colleagues… slipped a bit against you,” he said. “I want on this occasion to… let the whole church forgive us. It was just a slip. It wasn’t intentionally done to malign our church.”
He added: “I believe sincerely that you forgive her and forgive us and accept us as your children.”
Debrah acknowledged the longstanding relationship between government officials and the church, noting that several public office holders, including Local Government Minister Ahmed Ibrahim, are members of the denomination.
The apology follows a tense public exchange sparked by comments from Awusi, who had rebuked Nyamekye over his criticism of illegal mining, widely known as galamsey. Nyamekye, speaking at the church’s 48th General Conference, had warned that pollution of water bodies was affecting baptism practices in some communities.
Awusi’s response, in a radio interview, drew criticism after she cautioned the church leader against what she described as politically sensitive commentary.
Debrah’s intervention appears aimed at easing tensions between government officials and one of Ghana’s most influential religious bodies, amid heightened national debate over the environmental and social impact of illegal mining.
