The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has defended the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, over comments he made regarding the illegal mining menace in the country. Insisting that the Church has a duty to speak on moral and social issues.
In a statement signed by President of the Conference, Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, the bishops said the Church “cannot remain silent in the face of moral and social concerns”, especially on matters such as galamsey which affect human life and the environment.
The intervention follows remarks by Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Free Zones Authority, Dr. Mary Awusi, who warned that Apostle Nyamekye could be treated as a politician if he continues to comment on illegal mining.
Responding to the controversy, the bishops made clear that speaking on such issues is not political. “This is not partisan politics; it is a moral responsibility rooted in the Gospel,” the statement said.
They stressed that the Church has both “the right and the duty to speak” when issues threaten “human dignity” and “the integrity of creation”, pointing directly to the damage caused by illegal mining.
The bishops also rejected attempts to silence religious voices in public debate. “Yet this must not silence the voice of conscience,” they said, adding that the Church “does not seek power but strives to illuminate public life with truth.”
While noting reports that Dr. Awusi has apologised, the bishops warned that such comments harm public discourse. They said such remarks “do not foster the mutual respect needed in public discourse” and risk limiting honest moral reflection in society.
At the same time, they called for calm and unity, urging Ghanaians to promote “dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect” in the ongoing national conversation.
The bishops also appealed to leaders to listen to the Church and other voices of conscience, saying public officials should show “openness to the moral voice of the Church and all people of goodwill.”
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