Clergyman warns govtt over imminent economic crisis

Obuasi, Jan. 30, GNA- A Methodist priest has warned Professor Mills' administration over an imminent economic crisis in the country, if urgent measures were not put in place to halt the fast depreciation of the Ghana cedi.

The Right Reverend Benjamin K. Asare, Bishop of the Obuasi Diocese of the Church said the Ghana cedi was fast depreciating against the major world currencies and this will have serious consequences on the general life of the country if prudent economic measures are not put in place. Bishop Asare was delivering a sermon at the end of a four-day crusade and thanksgiving service at the forecourt of the Len Clay stadium.


The Methodist clergyman, who sounded more of an economist, emphasised that if the present government failed to find solution to the economic problems, the country would not recover for the next two years. "The year 2009 is going to be a difficult year for everybody in this country and that, people should be careful about the way they spend their income," he stressed adding, "those who are fond of borrowing from the banks too should exercise restraint since interest rates too are bound to increase".

Speaking on the theme, 'Jesus Christ is the hope of the world', the Rt. Rev Asare said the global economic crisis had come about because world leaders and their governments have neglected Christ in their decision making processes. "We leave Jesus Christ aside when world leaders are thinking and discussing about the economy, peace and development, knowing well that Christ is the hope for the world".


The Methodist Bishop expressed regret about the way African leaders were banking their hopes on President Barack Obama instead of Christ, saying Obama himself has numerous problems to solve in America, and wondered if he could address those problems with his term of office. Praising God for a peaceful election in the country, Rt. Rev. Asare called on all the political parties to forge ahead in unity to propel the nation forward. Evangelist Lartey who spoke to the press later, said Ghanaians should have patience and wait for God's direction since he holds the key to the world.