Chief of Staff Moves to Mend Ties with Pentecost Church

Chief of Staff Julius Debrah has issued a public apology to the Church of Pentecost following controversial remarks made by the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Free Zones Authority, Dr. Mavis Awusi, concerning the church’s Chairman, Apostle Eric Nyamekye.

The apology comes in the wake of widespread public criticism triggered by Dr. Awusi’s response to concerns raised by the Church about the devastating effects of illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey.

 During the Church’s General Council Meeting, Apostle Nyamekye expressed grave concern over the environmental destruction caused by such activities, particularly the pollution of water bodies across the country.

He noted that the contamination of rivers and streams has reached alarming levels, making it increasingly difficult for some Christian communities to perform baptismal rites in natural water sources.

As a result, many congregations have resorted to using artificial pools for such ceremonies.

Dr. Awusi’s remarks, made during a media engagement, drew strong backlash after she reportedly cautioned the church leader and suggested that he could face consequences if he continued to speak out on the issue.

Her comments were widely perceived as inappropriate and dismissive of the Church’s concerns.

In an effort to defuse tensions and mend relations, Mr. Debrah addressed the matter during his birthday celebration held at a branch of the Church of Pentecost at Trasacco on Sunday, April 26.

 Speaking before the congregation, he expressed regret over the incident and appealed for understanding and forgiveness.

He emphasized that the CEO’s comments were not intended to disrespect or undermine the Church, describing the situation as an unfortunate lapse in judgment.

Mr. Debrah further highlighted the close ties between the government and the Church, noting that several government officials, including himself, are members of the denomination.

Appealing directly to the leadership and members of the Church, he urged them to accept the apology in good faith and move forward in unity.

 He  expressed hope that the incident would not damage the longstanding relationship between the Church and the state.

Responding to the issue, Apostle Nyamekye made it clear he harbours no resentment and sees no reason to prolong the matter.

“As for this lady, she has made me more popular. People like that I don’t think about because she has made my church and myself more popular,” he said.

He stressed that if he had taken offence, he would have addressed it at length but has chosen to move on.

“If I held anything against her, like standing here to speak for 45 minutes, I would have said something about her. I think we all have our opinions on issues, so let’s forget about this issue,” he stated.