On Sunday, 10th August, the office of Ghana’s presidential envoy for interfaith and ecumenical relations sent out a press release, urging religious leaders to channel any prophecies or spiritual insights concerning high-profile figures or national security through official government channels for review and escalation.
The directive comes just days after a devastating military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight people, including two cabinet ministers, military personnel, and other officials.
The letter, signed by Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, the presidential envoy, was addressed to “All Ecumenical Heads” and titled “Strengthening Spiritual Partnership for National Direction and Healing.”
It extends “heartfelt appreciation” to religious denominations for their “unwavering spiritual support, intercessory prayers, and sustained leadership in promoting peace, moral integrity, and national unity.”
Mr. Ankrah emphasized the indispensable role of spiritual leaders in Ghana’s civic life, particularly during “times of uncertainty and complexity.”
He specifically requested that prophecies, insights, or revelations “of a national nature, especially those with implications for high-profile political leaders, governance, national security, or public stability should be formally relayed to the Office of the Presidential Envoy for urgent review and appropriate escalation.”
“This is in the spirit of responsibility, discernment, and stewardship over the nation’s destiny,” the letter states.
Country in Mourning
The appeal appears tied to the recent helicopter crash on Aug. 6 in the southern Ashanti region, where a Ghana Air Force Harbin Z-9 helicopter en route to an event on combating illegal mining plummeted into a forested area, killing all aboard.
Among the victims were Defense Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, both key figures in President John Dramani Mahama’s cabinet, as well as military personnel and aides affiliated with the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) party.
In the wake of the accident, the letter humbly requests “intense prayers” for President Mahama, the government, all state institutions, the bereaved families, and the entire nation.
“May the Lord comfort the afflicted, guide our leaders, and continue to preserve our beloved country,” it reads.
“We look forward to continued partnership and shared spiritual responsibility as we work together for the peace and prosperity of Ghana.”
Religious Prophecies in Ghana
Religious prophecies have long played a prominent role in Ghanaian public discourse, especially around elections, where pastors and prophets frequently predict outcomes or warn of impending doom.
Critics argue that such pronouncements can sow division or incite unrest, as seen in past instances where conflicting prophecies led to public skepticism or even violence.
Supporters, however, view them as divine guidance essential to the nation’s moral fabric.
The envoy’s letter has sparked discussion on social media and in local news outlets, with some questioning its validity.
This article was edited with AI and reviewed by human editors
