NDC's Obimpeh backs Free Zones Board CEO, questions Pentecost Chairman's silence over the years

A former Ashanti Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Yaw Owusu Obimpeh, has added his voice to the ongoing public debate involving CEO of Ghana Free Zones Authority Dr. Mary Awusi and the Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, urging consistency, balance, and fairness in national conversations on illegal mining.

In a statement, Mr. Obimpeh reaffirmed his respect for religious leaders and their contribution to national values, unity, and social cohesion. However, he stressed that discussions on critical national issues such as galamsey must remain non-partisan and continuous, regardless of which political party is in power.

He noted that illegal mining continues to pose a serious threat to Ghana’s rivers and forest reserves, adding that the situation worsened significantly during the tenure of the previous New Patriotic Party administration. According to him, many Ghanaians expected stronger and more consistent advocacy from influential voices during that period.

Mr. Obimpeh observed that some prominent figures, including Apostle Nyamekye, were less vocal on the issue at the time, which he said raises questions about the timing and consistency of current public commentary.

“This contrast raises a legitimate question about timing and consistency,” he noted, adding that the current intensity of debate comes at a time when government is implementing interventions, with some early signs of environmental recovery being reported.

He clarified that his comments were not intended to silence any individual, but to emphasise the importance of fairness and sustained advocacy in addressing national challenges.

Mr. Obimpeh further suggested that recent remarks by Dr. Mary Awusi should be viewed within this broader context, as reflecting concerns about perceived uneven scrutiny in public discourse.

Dr. Awusi has since issued a public apology, which Mr. Obimpeh described as a sign of maturity and leadership. He nevertheless maintained that her call for objectivity in national discussions remains important.

He also commended Dr. Awusi’s leadership at the Ghana Free Zones Authority, citing improvements in regulatory efficiency, investor facilitation, and the business environment.

He concluded by calling on political leaders, religious bodies, the media, and civil society to engage constructively and collaborate in protecting the environment while strengthening Ghana’s democratic governance.