Forgive us, it was just a slip - Chief of Staff appeals for forgiveness from Church of Pentecost

Julius Debrah, Chief of Staff, made an emotional appeal for forgiveness on behalf of the government on Sunday, April 26, at the Pentecost International Worship Centre (PIWC) Trassaco, saying, "Forgive us, it was just a slip, it wasn't intentionally done to malign our church. I believe sincerely that you will forgive us and forgive us and accept us as your children." The appeal followed public controversy surrounding remarks attributed to Dr Mary Awusi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Free Zones Authority.

The visit to the church included President John Dramani Mahama and Vice President Prof Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, and was in line with a Thanksgiving service held in honor of the Chief of Staff as he marks his 60th birthday. Mr. Debrah sought to reassure the church that the comments were not intended to cause offense or undermine the church's reputation. He noted that several senior government officials, including himself, are members of the Church of Pentecost. He added that Dr Mary Awusi "slipped a bit against you, and I would want on this occasion to commemorate my birthday to let the whole church forgive us."

Dr Mary Awusi granted a radio interview on Accra FM on Friday, April 24, during which she acknowledged that some of her remarks may have been misinterpreted. Mr. Debrah reiterated his hope that the Church of Pentecost would accept the apology in good faith and continue its relationship with both government officials and the wider state apparatus.