Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, was at the centre of contrasting public moments over the weekend, delivering an emotional apology over controversial remarks directed at a leading clergyman, while also hosting a series of high-profile events to mark his 60th birthday.
On Sunday, April 26, Mr Debrah broke down in tears as he apologised to Eric Nyamekye, Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, following public outrage over comments made by a government official.
The controversy began after Apostle Nyamekye, speaking at the church’s general conference, condemned the environmental destruction caused by illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey. He highlighted the severe pollution of water bodies, noting that the situation had become so dire it was affecting the conduct of traditional river baptisms.
His remarks, which resonated widely with civil society and the public, were met with sharp criticism from Mary Awusi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Free Zones Authority. Her comments, widely described as disrespectful, included a warning for the clergyman to “keep quiet or face consequences,” and accusations that the church was engaging in political interference.
The backlash that followed prompted calls for restraint and respect, culminating in Mr Debrah’s public apology to the church leader.
Amid the controversy, Mr Debrah also marked his 60th birthday with a series of elaborate events attended by top political figures, clergy, and entertainment personalities.
President John Dramani Mahama reportedly organised a surprise celebration at Jubilee House, using a pretext of an urgent meeting to usher the Chief of Staff into the gathering.
A thanksgiving service was subsequently held in his honour, drawing attendance from senior government officials, including Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, alongside religious leaders.
The celebrations continued with a grand reception at Trassaco Valley, where guests were treated to an evening of music, tributes, and performances by leading Ghanaian artistes such as Stonebwoy and R2Bees.
The juxtaposition of the emotional apology and the lavish celebrations has generated mixed reactions on social media, with some Ghanaians questioning the optics of the events, while others defended the Chief of Staff’s right to celebrate a personal milestone.