Free Zones CEO should've been sacked for her comments against Pentecost Chairman - Charles Owiredu

Charles Owiredu, Member of Parliament for Abirem, criticised Dr. Mary Awusi, CEO of the Ghana Free Zones Authority, saying she should have been dismissed over comments targeting the Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr. Eric Nyamekye. This occurred after Apostle Nyamekye had said illegal mining was disrupting community livelihoods and religious practices. In response, Dr. Awusi told Apostle Nyamekye to stay in the lane of clergy work, or else he would be treated as a politician. Dr. Awusi, however, apologised after a heavy public backlash.

Speaking on JoyNews' Newsfile on Saturday, April 25, Mr. Owiredu defended Apostle Nyamekye and described the criticism directed at the church leader as unwarranted, asking "What did revered Apostle Eric Nyamekye say wrong?". He explained that the Church of Pentecost believes in immersion, and it's biblical, referencing scripture to support the practice, specifically Acts 8:26 to 40. Mr. Owiredu described the response from the Free Zones CEO as disrespectful, stating "We have an operative of the NDC, a CEO, come out and openly attack this revered minister of the gospel".

Mr. Owiredu linked the issue to the wider impact of illegal mining on livelihoods and public health, saying communities like his in Abirem are already feeling the effects. He warned that the country is "sitting on a time bomb" if the destruction of farmland and water bodies continues unchecked. He also criticised the lack of action against individuals accused of engaging in illegal mining, stating "The president said he knew people involved… the Attorney General mentioned names… up to now, nothing has been done".