‘We are not afraid of you’ – Rev. Mante responds to Free Zones CEO over galamsey remarks

Former Moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Joseph Obiri Yeboah Mante, has weighed in on the controversy surrounding comments made by the CEO of the Ghana Free Zones Authority, Dr. Mavis Awusi, directed at the Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye.

The debate follows remarks by Apostle Nyamekye during the Church’s General Council Meeting, where he highlighted the destructive impact of illegal mining, or galamsey, on the environment. He pointed to widespread pollution of rivers and streams, noting that some congregations have had to rely on artificial pools for baptisms due to contaminated water bodies.

His comments, which drew public attention to the environmental crisis, were met with a strong reaction from Dr. Awusi, who cautioned that the church leader could face consequences if he continued making such statements remarks that sparked criticism from sections of the public.

Responding on Sunday, April 26, Rev. Mante firmly defended the right of religious leaders to speak on national issues without fear. He rejected any suggestion of intimidation, stressing that moral concerns such as galamsey transcend political affiliations.

He stated that the fight against wrongdoing should remain consistent regardless of which government is in power, referencing both Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and John Dramani Mahama to emphasize that principles must be upheld under any administration.