The Ghana Police Service has issued advice to prophets in Ghana, urging them to conduct their religious activities in adherence to the law.
This guidance was conveyed through a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs of the Police Service, Grace Ansah-Akrofi, as part of the Prophesy Communication Compliance Day observed on December 27. The statement emphasizes the importance of practicing faith within legal boundaries, promoting responsible and lawful conduct among religious practitioners in the country.
“As we have come to consider December 27th as Prophecy Communication Compliance Day, the Ghana Police Service is once again urging religious communities to practice their faith within the legal framework,” part of the statement read.
“We urge the general public, especially faith-based groups and individuals, to continue to be patriotic and abide by the law to ensure that the prevailing state of law, order, and security in our beloved country is maintained”, the statement continued
The Ghana Police Service has emphasized the importance of balancing the exercise of constitutional rights, such as freedom of speech and the practice of faith, with respect for the rights and freedoms of others and the public interest. This reminder comes in the context of concerns about certain religious leaders, particularly prophets, creating fear among the public through their prophecies.
The police directive is part of a broader effort to regulate the frequency and content of prophecies that may contribute to unnecessary panic and fear. The statement underscores the need for the public, especially the religious community, to be mindful of the law regarding the publication of false news.
The police expressed gratitude to faith-based groups and individuals for their cooperation with the law, particularly in the responsible communication of prophecies, contributing to a society free from unwarranted panic, fear, and alarm. The Police Service took the opportunity to “wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.”
The directive, initially issued in 2021, imposed restrictions on the manner in which prophets in Ghana could announce their prophecies.
In response, some religious leaders, such as Nigel Gaisie, founder and leader of the Prophetic Chapel Hill Prophet, adjusted their approach to comply with the directive. For instance, Gaisie substituted the name of Ghana with ‘Umofia’ while delivering prophecies for the year 2021, adhering to the guidelines set by the police.
During his 31st night service, Gaisie informed his congregation that those were the only prophecies he would provide, expressing a willingness to respect the wishes of individuals who preferred not to hear about certain events, especially concerning death.
On the other hand, Rev. Owusu Bempah, the leader of the Glorious Word Power Ministries, expressed discontent with the directive and cautioned the Inspector General of Police against enforcing laws that would regulate the activities of prophets in Ghana. This highlights a diversity of opinions and reactions within the religious community regarding the limitations imposed by the directive.
“Mr. Dampare, you came to meet prophecy, and prophecy will outlive your era. I have no issue with you, but don’t bring your issues to prophets. If someone commits an illegality, deal with him or her, but don’t touch the prophets,” he said.
“I’m pleading with you; don’t touch pastors, preachers, prophets, or anything Christian alone. Leave Christians alone. Muslims also prophesy. You work for the government and will be paid by the government, so leave me alone to focus on my work because my reward is in heaven.” he added
Sunday is December 31, and it remains to be seen whether the renowned prophets will comply with this directive.
Find below a copy of the communiqué.
