The Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Free Zones Authority, Mary Awusi, has cautioned the Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Eric Nyamekye, over his recent comments on illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Speaking in an interview on The Citizen Show on Accra 100.5 FM with host Nana Otu Darko on April 23, 2026, Dr. Awusi described the Apostle’s remarks as politically inclined rather than neutral.

While acknowledging his position as a religious leader, she urged him to refrain from making what she termed political statements, warning that she may respond more firmly if such comments persist.

“He is a man of God, so we will forgive him. However, he should not lower himself to that level again. If he continues to make political statements, he will be treated as a politician,” she said.

Dr. Awusi also questioned the consistency of public criticism on illegal mining across different administrations, asking whether similar concerns were raised during previous periods when water pollution was severe.

She maintained that the current administration has taken steps to improve the condition of water bodies, stressing that such progress should be acknowledged.

The remarks come in response to comments made by Apostle Nyamekye during his State of the Church Address at the 48th General Conference on April 22, 2026, where he expressed concern over the impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s rivers and streams.

According to him, the pollution of water bodies has begun to affect religious practices, including water baptism in some communities.

“The widespread pollution of water bodies due to illegal mining has made traditional river baptisms difficult in some communities,” he noted, adding that some districts have resorted to using alternative facilities for baptisms.