A birthday church service to the Church of Pentecost turned into a moment of reconciliation, as Chief of Staff Julius Debrah publicly addressed the fallout from recent remarks targeting the church’s leadership.
Speaking before the congregation at Trasacco on Sunday, April 26, Debrah acknowledged the unease sparked by comments made by Dr. Mary Awusi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Free Zones Authority, about the church’s Chairman, Apostle Eric Nyamekye. The issue had drawn strong reactions after the church raised alarm over the destructive impact of illegal mining, widely known as galamsey.
The controversy traces back to the Church’s General Council Meeting, where Apostle Nyamekye highlighted the growing environmental crisis. He stressed that rivers and streams have been so heavily polluted by galamsey activities that some Christian communities can no longer carry out baptisms in natural water bodies, resorting instead to specially built pools.
Dr. Awusi’s response during a media interview intensified the situation. Her warning that the church leader could be “dealt with” if he persisted with such comments triggered widespread criticism and calls for restraint.
With tensions simmering, Debrah chose to confront the matter directly in church, framing his remarks as both a personal appeal and an effort to mend relations between the government and the religious body.
Addressing the congregation, he struck a conciliatory tone and asked for understanding, insisting the comments were not meant to disrespect the church.
“God continue to bless you. But the chairman of our church, you know, myself, Elder Ofosu Ampofo, our Local Government Minister and several others, are members of your church. A few days ago, one of our colleagues, Dr. Mary Awusi, slipped a bit against you. I want on this occasion to commemorate my birthday, to let the whole church forgive us.
“It was just a slip. It wasn’t intentionally done to malign our church. I believe sincerely that you forgive her and forgive us and accept us as your children. God richly bless all of you.”
Watch the video below.
