GPCC welcomes police warning against ‘reckless’ prophecies during watchnight services

President of the Ghana Charismatic and Pentecostal Council (GPCC), Reverend Prof. Paul Frimpong Manso, has welcomed the Police, warning pastors and religious leaders against prophecies as 2022 beckons.

In a statement on Monday, the Police said such prophecies are likely to cause fear and panic in the populace.

Ahead of December 31 church services, which are usually held to mark the end of the year and to usher in a new year, various religious leaders announce prophecies, sometimes declaring the death of persons.

The Police say while freedom of religion is guaranteed under the Constitution, the communication of prophecies of harm, danger and death by some religious leaders can cause tension in society.

Speaking to JoyNews on Tuesday, Prof. Frimpong Manso lauded the Police for their proactiveness on the issue.

He also decried how some pastors go about their prophecies in the country, adding that “some prophets, whether we like it or not, will make some of us uncomfortable [while] some will give us comfort.”

“When we talk about policing, we are talking about peace, safety and security of the populace, so if there is anything that will bring peace, safety and security, then they should be on board. So it’s good that they [the Police] have been proactive to some of these things.”

“On the other hand, our Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and freedom of association, but our freedom should be within the framework of the Constitution. One’s freedom should not affect another person’s freedom of safety and security,” he said.

Rev. Frimpong Manso further stated that his outfit will continuously engage the Police administration on the matter to deal with issues some members of the clergy members may have.