The Deputy National Communications Director for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr George Krobea Asante has reacted to the statements made by the CEO of the Ghana Free Zones Authority against the Chairman of the Church of Pentecost.
Mr Asante describes her statement not as only disrespectful but also completely unfounded, igniting a controversy that speaks volumes about the current political climate in Ghana.

The remarks made by the CEO came in reaction to the Chairman’s public declarations regarding the alarming and escalating crisis of galamsey, also known as illegal mining, a pressing issue that poses significant threats to the nation’s environment and societal fabric.

Mr Asante did not shy away from criticizing both the inappropriate remarks and the hypocrisy exhibited by members within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, who have been vehemently attacking those who dare to criticize the galamsey phenomenon.

In a statement that was both passionate and unyielding, Asante lamented the irony of the entire situation, emphasizing the stark contrast between the NDC's past and present attitudes towards the issue of illegal mining. He pointed out that this political party, which had previously leveraged public concern over galamsey to mount a vigorous opposition against the government during President Nana Akufo-Addo's tenure, has now seemingly adopted an approach of intolerance towards any form of criticism on this critical issue. "It is both shocking and hypocritical that elements within the NDC government have suddenly become intolerant of criticisms on illegal mining," Asante passionately remarked, illustrating the troubling inconsistency in the party’s position.

Asante further took the opportunity to remind the Ghanaian populace of the NDC’s earlier backing of the growing outcry concerning galamsey when they were in the opposition. During the administration of President Akufo-Addo, various civil society organizations, religious figures, and activists—among them notable advocates like Oliver Barker-Vormawor and the “Fix The Country Movement”—joined forces to raise awareness about the disastrous consequences of illegal mining activities. These groups organized widespread protests, advocating for urgent action to remediate the environmental degradation inflicted by galamsey operations. At that time, the NDC had aligned itself with these causes, utilizing the concerns of these protesters as a means to critique the ruling government.

However, according to Asante, this position has shifted dramatically since that time. Under the leadership of former President John Dramani Mahama, the environmental devastation caused by galamsey continues to escalate, with waterways being polluted at an alarming rate, deforestation rampant, and agricultural lands devastated by illegal mining ventures. Disturbingly, those courageous enough to raise their voices against galamsey are now being targeted with intimidation tactics and public assaults on their character.

“Has galamsey suddenly been normalized under the Mahama administration?” Asante provocatively questioned, urging government officials to reflect on their responses to this escalating crisis. He voiced serious concerns over the inability of government appointees to address the multiplying environmental destruction occurring throughout Ghana, emphasizing that rather than confronting this grave issue head-on, they are opting instead to attack respected leaders like the Chairman of the Church of Pentecost simply for voicing legitimate concerns.

Mr Asante further asserted that, as a responsible citizen of Ghana, the Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, like every other Ghanaian, possesses the constitutional, moral, and civic right to express opinions on national matters of importance. He stated that respected figure should not have to endure insults, threats, or any form of political intimidation for merely exercising that right. Asante’s strong condemnation of these attacks serves to highlight a wider issue concerning political intolerance and the gradual erosion of democratic principles under the current administration.

In light of the troubling comments made by the CEO of the Ghana Free Zones Authority, Mr Asante urged President John Dramani Mahama to take immediate and decisive action.

He called on the President to publicly denounce these remarks and to seriously consider relieving the CEO of her responsibilities if he is genuinely committed to upholding democratic values and showing respect to the clergy.

He cautioned that any failure to act would only reinforce the perception that this government is unfriendly to dissenting opinions, creating a chilling effect on free speech and democratic engagement.

As a Church, we will advise ourselves, Mr Asante concluded with determination, indicating that the Church of Pentecost remains steadfast in its mission to speak out on matters that bear significance for the nation, highlighting their resolve to continue advocating for the common good amidst challenging circumstances.

Sompaonline.com/Bismarck Oppong