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Church of Pentecost Chairman's galamsey comments spark backlash from Ghana Free Zones Authority CEO
via GhanaWeb3 min read
Apostle Eric Nyamekye, Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, announced on April 22, 2026, that the church will cease using rivers for baptism due to extensive pollution from illegal mining, known as galamsey. He stated that dedicated baptistries would be used instead to protect members' health. This decision, revealed during the State of the Church Address at the 48th General Conference, drew criticism from Dr. Mary Awusi, CEO of the Ghana Free Zones Authority and a senior National Democratic Congress figure. Speaking on Accra FM on April 23, 2026, Dr. Awusi accused Apostle Nyamekye of making politically motivated comments and warned him against repeating such remarks, threatening to "deal with him" if he did. She questioned why he had not spoken out against water pollution during the previous administration of former President Nana Akufo-Addo. Apostle Nyamekye's exact words highlighted the health and safety concerns in galamsey-endemic communities and the church's intensified advocacy with government stakeholders to combat illegal mining.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by GhanaWeb.
Must ReadThe Ghanaian government has initiated efforts to relocate Emmanuel Asamoah, a Ghanaian national residing in South Africa, following what authorities have described as a xenophobic attack. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced on X that Asamoah was subjected to an “unwarranted xenophobic attack from a fringe vigilante group.” The minister confirmed that the government has engaged with Asamoah and is taking steps to ensure his safety, stating, “We are taking him out of South Africa.” Ablakwa also mentioned he had spoken directly with Asamoah, who is in good condition despite ongoing threats. The Minister commended the South African authorities, specifically the Minister for Police, Prof Firoz Cachalia, for their response. The Ghanaian government reiterated its commitment to protecting its citizens globally, emphasizing that no Ghanaian will be left in harm’s way. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about xenophobic attacks in South Africa, even as both governments aim to strengthen bilateral relations.
Ghana's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and Ireland, Sabah Zita Benson, met with Ghanaian lawyers practicing in the UK to enlist their support for providing voluntary legal services to the Ghanaian community. This initiative, following an earlier appeal to the Ghanaian Lawyers' Group, aims to enhance consular support for Ghanaians abroad. The lawyers expressed their willingness to collaborate, agreeing to offer legal advice and assistance and participate in upcoming town hall meetings to address legal concerns. Mrs. Benson emphasized the High Commission's commitment to improving consular services and ensuring timely support for Ghanaians in the UK, particularly during legal difficulties. She also announced plans to create a comprehensive database of professionals, including lawyers, doctors, nurses, and social workers, to bolster the High Commission's efforts and establish a structured support system within the diaspora. The High Commission commended the lawyers for their commitment to community welfare.
King John Aggrey Essien of Oguaa Cape Coast is recognized as the first Ghanaian king to be exiled for opposing colonial rule. Born around 1809, he became king in February 1865, succeeding his father King Joseph Aggrey. King John Aggrey challenged British jurisdiction, resisted the transfer of cases to colonial courts, and rejected the idea that the people of Cape Coast were British subjects. He also reportedly refused to sign over lands surrounding Cape Coast Castle to the British. His opposition led to his apprehension and banishment to Sierra Leone in 1867, where he remained for two years. Upon his return in 1869 due to illness, he renounced his claim to the stool and received an annual pension. He died later that year. His exile is considered a significant event that helped galvanize support for the formation of the Fante Confederation, an early organized African response to colonial domination. King John Aggrey Essien is remembered as a symbol of resistance against British imperialism.
The Economic and Organised Crime Office EOCO is poised to begin its investigation into Dr Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple, a businessman and Council of State member, regarding accusations of gold trade fraud. This development follows the expiration of a 10-day injunction that had prevented EOCO from investigating Dr Kwamigah-Atokple and his company, Sesi-Edem Company Limited. An application by the Council of State member and his company to extend the injunction was not heard. During court proceedings on April 23, 2026, the judge referred three motions, including a contempt motion, to the Chief Justice for transfer to High Court 1, Adenta, stating that he believed these matters should have been filed there. The judge adjourned the matter indefinitely, despite opposition from the lawyers for Dr Kwamigah-Atokple and his company. The EOCO investigation originates from petitions by companies such as J.G Resources Ltd and Unigold Trading LLC, which allege they paid approximately GH¢57.7 million for about 50 kilograms of gold from Sesi-Edem, but either received incomplete delivery or no delivery at all. EOCO is also reportedly investigating potential money laundering in connection with the case.