Tensions have risen in the public domain following accusations that Mary Ewusi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Free Zones Authority, made provocative comments directed at Apostle Eric Nyamekye, Chairman of the Church of Pentecost. The issue has attracted various responses from political spectators, religious associations, and members of the public.
The reactions are the result of comments made by Apostle Nyamekye during his “State of the Church” address at the 48th General Assembly of the Church of Pentecost.
In his speech, the esteemed religious leader voiced out his concern over the intensifying nature of illegal mining, which is known t as “galamsey”, and its distressing effect on Ghana’s environment.
He pointed out how illegal mining has destroyed the water bodies in the country, particularly water bodies used for religious activities such as baptism. Apostle Nyamekye emphasized that pollution of rivers and streams has made it increasingly difficult for the Church to carry out traditional river baptisms.
According to him, baptism is an essential exercise in Pentecost Church. He therefore called for prompt measures to be put in place to halt the activity nationwide; he asserted that the menace is both a moral and existential threat.
However, the address has allegedly drawn a sharp response from Mary Ewusi. According to Henry Nana Boakye, popularly known as Nana B, Mary Ewusi’s threats to Apostle Nyamekye should not be overlooked.
“In a very shocking twist, this very justifiable concern by the revered leader of the church of Pentecost has been met with a very distasteful attack from the President and the NDC through Madam Ewusi, CEO of the Ghana Freezones board and a close confidante of President John Mahama.”
Henry Nana Boakye, NPP National Organizer
These alleged comments made by Mary Ewusi have generated criticism from numerous people, including Henry Nana Boakye, who described the behavior as inappropriate and disrespectful toward a senior religious figure.
He further called for actions to be taken against her, demanding her immediate removal from her position at the Ghana Free Zones Authority if the comments are confirmed. Some members of the Church of Pentecost have also voiced out their displeasure.
He further emphasized that the church of Pentecost has contributed immensely to national development and moral training. He argued that Apostle Nyamekye’s remarks were honest and focused on a serious issue affecting all Ghanaians, irrespective of political association.
Some advocates of the environment have also added their voice to the issue, pointing out that the core issue raised is illegal mining. This activity remains one of Ghana’s most persistent challenges, which has been fought by both the sitting government and opposition, though it is still on the rise.
Called On Mahama To Sack Mary Ewusi
Henry Nana Boakye reiterated that President Mahama should revoke Mary Ewusi’s appointment with urgency to show his displeasure towards the act. “The NDC and President Mahama must, as a matter of urgency, render an unqualified apology to Apostle Eric Nyamekye and the leadership of the church of Pentecost”.
Despite the growing controversy, there has yet to be an official statement from Mary Ewusi addressing the allegations. Similarly, representatives of the National Democratic Congress have not issued a formal response clarifying their position on the matter.
Meanwhile, civil society organizations are calling for calm and urging all parties to engage in constructive dialogue. They stress the importance of maintaining mutual respect between political leaders and religious institutions, particularly in a democratic society where diverse perspectives are essential.
As the debate continues, many Ghanaians are watching closely to see how political leaders respond. The situation has once again highlighted the delicate balance between political authority, religious influence, and freedom of expression in the country’s evolving democratic landscape. Whether this argument leads to concrete action or fades from public attention remains to be seen.
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