By Eric Appah Marfo, GNA
Accra, April 26, GNA – Mr Julius Debrah, the Chief of Staff, on Sunday broke down in tears as he publicly apologised to Apostle Eric Nyamekye, Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, over Dr Mary Awusi’s recent comments.
The comments by Dr Awusi, the CEO of the FreeZones Board, were linked to Apostle Nyamekye’s remarks on illegal mining, otherwise known as “galamsey.”
The apology came during Mr Debrah’s 60th birthday thanksgiving service held at the Pentecost International Worship Centre, Trasacco Branch, in Accra.
It was attended by President John Dramani Mahama, Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the Chairman of the Council of State, the Inspector General of Police and several high-ranking government officials.
Addressing the congregation in an emotional moment that moved many worshippers, Mr Debrah said: “A few days ago, one of our colleagues, Dr Mary Awusi slipped a bit against you, and I want, on this occasion to commemorate my birthday, to let the whole church forgive us.”
“It was just a slip. It wasn’t intentionally done to malign our church. I believe sincerely that you will forgive her and forgive us and accept us as your children.”
The controversy followed public reactions to comments made by Apostle Nyamekye on the national fight against galamsey, where he highlighted the need for stronger moral responsibility and collective national action to protect the environment and preserve the country’s natural resources.
Dr Awusi, in responding to discussions around the Chairman’s position, made remarks that attracted criticism from sections of the public and members of the church, who viewed them as disrespectful to the head of the church.
Following the backlash, she clarified her position and apologised, explaining that her comments were not intended to disrespect the Chairman or malign the church.
Responding to Mr Debrah’s appeal, Apostle Nyamekye dismissed any lingering tension and assured the congregation that he had already forgiven Dr Awusi.
“As for this lady, she has made me more popular. People like that, I don’t think about them because she has just made our church and myself more popular,” he said, drawing laughter from the congregation.
He added that if he had held any grievance against her, he would have addressed it during his sermon, but insisted that everyone was entitled to their opinions on national issues.
“I think that we all have our opinions on issues. So let’s just forget about this. I have forgiven her. So don’t worry. I want your heart to rest and enjoy this day,” he said.
The response was met with applause before the Chairman led a special prayer session for Mr Debrah, asking God to grant him long life, wisdom to carry out his mandate and divine protection for him and his family.
The celebration turned festive as Mr Debrah took to the dance floor, surrounded by family, friends and well-wishers.
He thanked the President, Vice President, church leadership, family and well-wishers for their support and reflected on his long-standing relationship with President Mahama, describing him as the man who changed his life and entrusted him with key national responsibilities.
He said President Mahama had elevated him from being “just a worker” to becoming Minister of Local Government and later Chief of Staff, adding that the President’s trust and confidence in him remained one of the greatest blessings of his life.
Turning to the leadership of the church, Mr Debrah praised Apostle Nyamekye for personally attending and preaching at his thanksgiving service, describing it as one of the greatest gifts he could have received on his milestone celebration.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe