Mahama government, NDC not known for attacking men of God – Gbande

The Deputy General Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mustapha Gbande, has stated that the party and the government of President John Dramani Mahama have no record of attacking religious leaders.

His comments follow public reactions to remarks made by Dr Mary Awusi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Free Zones Board, against Apostle Dr Eric Nyamekye, the Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, which drew criticisms from some sections of the public.

Gbande explained that Awusi’s comments, where she had warned that if Apostle Nyamekye continued to “behave like a politician” he would be treated as one, over his comments on the effects of illegal mining, known as galamsey, were made in the heat of the moment and not intended to disrespect any religious figure.

'I will deal with him if he repeats it' - Free Zones CEO warns Pentecost Chair over galamsey

“The government of President Mahama and the leadership of the NDC, through its rank and file, is not known to have a record of attacking men and women of God. We are multi-faith based and respect each religious sect as well as their beliefs.

“As human beings and political elements, we are sometimes capable of overrunning boundaries and limitations when engaged in public speaking, and recent expressions by Mary are one such typical situation,” he said in a Facebook post on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

He added that Dr Awusi may have reacted without fully understanding the context of the issue involving Apostle Eric Nyamekye.

“I have deduced that at the time the journalist posed the question to her, she hadn't gotten the benefit of doubt to listen to the humble and respected man of God, Apostle Nyamekye, and responded in anger towards a question, not a video,” he stated.

Gbande noted that Dr Awusi has since apologised and retracted her comments.

“As honest as she can be, after the events, she has apologised to the respected apostle and the pentecostal society in general. She also retracted her words; her action for me is biblical and resonates with the doctrine of a sinner who has repented and pleaded for forgiveness,” he said.

He described Dr Mary Awusi as a calm and respectful person who has served both the party and the state without controversy.

“Madam Mary Awusi is the current CEO of the Ghana Free Zones Board, a reputable entity overseeing the creation of economic enclaves for production and manufacturing with both local and international scope.

“Prior to this, she served as an appointed executive officer of the party at the national headquarters, a position she still holds. She is known for her calm reflections on issues and respect for others,” he added.

He added that the party promotes tolerance and inclusion across society.

“As party members, we are not trained to insult, undermine, or hold any man of God in contempt. We do not have any feelings of reproach against any human being except corrupt people,” he stated.

Touching on national issues, Gbande said the fight against illegal mining requires collective effort, including the involvement of religious bodies.

“The fight against illegal mining is a major concern for all Ghanaians, a menace that requires social and community consciousness and inclusivity. The church is a major stakeholder as far as this fight is concerned.

“Under President Mahama, so far, we have been able to minimise the impact on forests and river bodies. The current Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Armah-Kofi Buah, should be commended for these remarkable steps,” he added.

Gbande also accused the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) of attacking some religious leaders in the past.

“I saw members of the opposition sharing and widely publicising what Dr Mary Awusi said; her comments were wrong, she apologized and cleared the air.

“I still remember the coordinated media and political attacks organised from within the Nana Addo-led administration with the backing of the NPP… to perpetuate character assassination against some men of God in this country,” he added.

He cited instances involving Nicholas Duncan-Williams, Charles Agyinasare, and Lawrence Tetteh.

'I retract and apologise' – Free Zones CEO to Apostle Nyamekye over galamsey remarks

Gbande maintained that the NDC remains committed to working with all religious groups.

“I am a tongue-speaking Christian - politician, filled with the Holy Ghost, working for a president who is a church worker and a dedicated Christian. We stand with the Christian dome and all persons with Christ-like values, including all religious faiths, in national discourse,” he concluded.

MAG/AE