Presidential Envoy for Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations, Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, has warned prophets and spiritual leaders to comply with Ghana’s new prophecy directive or face intense public scrutiny.
Speaking on Citi FM on Monday, August 11, Mr Afriyie Ankrah explained that although the directive carries no legal penalties, the court of public opinion would serve as a powerful deterrent.
“There is nothing like an arrest when they defy the directive, but society will judge them if they don’t obey. They used to complain that they did not have access to victims, and now they have been given access,” he stated.
The directive, issued by the Office of the Presidential Envoy on Sunday, August 10, calls on religious leaders nationwide to submit any prophecy or spiritual revelation of national significance to the office for prompt review.
This applies especially to revelations involving high-profile political figures, governance, national security, or issues that could impact public order and stability.
The move follows a wave of prophecies circulating on social media after the August 6 military helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region, which claimed eight lives. Among the victims were Defence Minister Dr Edward Omane Boamah; Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed; former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye; and NDC Vice-Chairman Samuel Sarpong. Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah also perished.
On Sunday, August 10, Ghanaians paid their respects to Dr Murtala Muhammed and Muniru Mohammed ahead of a state funeral for all victims, scheduled for Friday, August 15, at the Black Star Square.
