The Leading Deputy Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), George Krobea Asante, has strongly criticised remarks made by the CEO of the Ghana Free Zones Authority, describing them as disrespectful toward the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Eric Nyamekye.
The comments follow a recent exchange sparked by Apostle Nyamekye’s public concerns about the impact of illegal mining (galamsey), particularly its effect on water bodies used for religious practices such as baptism.
In a strongly worded statement, Asante accused elements within the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) of hypocrisy, arguing that the party, which previously amplified concerns about galamsey while in opposition, has now become intolerant of criticism.
“It is both shocking and hypocritical that elements within the NDC government have suddenly become intolerant of criticisms on illegal mining,” he stated.
Asante recalled how civil society groups, clergy, and activists—including figures like Oliver Barker-Vormawor and movements such as the Fix The Country Movement—had actively campaigned against the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining during the administration of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, with support from the NDC at the time.
He argued that despite a change in government under President John Dramani Mahama, the environmental challenges associated with galamsey persist, including polluted water bodies, degraded forests, and destroyed farmlands.
“Has galamsey suddenly been normalized under the Mahama administration?” he questioned.
Asante further defended the right of religious leaders to speak on national issues, insisting that Apostle Nyamekye, like all citizens, has a constitutional and moral right to express concern without facing intimidation or public attacks.
He called on President Mahama to take decisive action by publicly condemning the remarks made by the Free Zones Authority CEO and considering appropriate sanctions if necessary.
“The failure to act will only strengthen the perception that the government is hostile to dissenting voices,” he warned.
He concluded by indicating that the Church of Pentecost would continue to stand firm in addressing national issues, reaffirming its role in contributing to public discourse.
