The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference has firmly rejected suggestions that the Church’s vocal opposition to illegal mining (galamsey) amounts to partisan politics, insisting instead that such advocacy flows from its spiritual mandate to defend moral and social values.
In a statement issued on Tuesday 28 April 2026, the Conference responded to recent comments by Dr Mary Awusi, Chief Executive Officer of the Free Zones Board, who had warned the Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, that if he continued speaking on illegal mining “he should be ready to be treated as a politician.”
While acknowledging that Dr Awusi has since apologised, the Bishops stressed that the Church cannot remain silent when the common good and human dignity are threatened.
“The Church, by her nature and divine mandate, cannot remain silent in the face of moral and social concerns,” the statement, signed by the Conference President, Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, said. “Christ calls His Church to be ‘the light of the world’ and ‘the salt of the earth’ (cf. Matthew 5:13-14).”
The Bishops argued that the destructive impact of galamsey—which harms the environment, endangers water bodies, and undermines livelihoods—demands a moral response from all faith leaders.
“This is not partisan politics; it is a moral responsibility rooted in the Gospel,” the statement read.
The Conference warned that equating moral witness with political partisanship risks narrowing the space for ethical reflection in national discourse. “We do not expect such expressions from those entrusted with public responsibility; rather, we encourage respectful and constructive dialogue,” the Bishops said.
They also commended the Christian community for its measured reaction to Dr Awusi’s remarks, describing it as a demonstration of unity and restraint.
The Bishops called on public officials to remain open to moral perspectives from religious institutions and citizens, urging a spirit of dialogue and mutual respect in tackling national challenges.
“This moment calls us to be instruments of peace. Let us avoid division and promote dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect,” the statement concluded.
The Conference further prayed for national unity and divine guidance for Ghana’s leadership as the country confronts pressing social and environmental concerns.
