By Doreen Ampofo
Government says it is exploring ways for the annual ban on drumming and noise-making by the Ga Traditional Council to be inclusive of all religious principles.
This was announced by the Senior Minister at the Presidency, Yaw Osafo Maafo, at the 2023 Synod of the Global Evangelical Church.
His comments follow an appeal by the Moderator of the Global Evangelical Church, Rt. Rev. Prosper S. Dzomeku, to explore legal interpretation for clarity on the implementation of the ban.
In response, the senior minister said Government will engage religious leaders, including the Ga Traditional Council, for an open dialogue on the matter.
Between May and June each year, the Ga Traditional Council places a ban on drumming and noise-making to pave the way for the celebration of the Homowo festival. During this period, churches are expected to carry out their activities within their premises and refrain from the use of musical instruments.
The positioning of loudspeakers outside the premises of churches, mosques, and pubs are banned, with roadside evangelists required to cease their activities.
According to Moderator of the Global Evangelical Church, Rt. Rev. Prosper Dzomeku, although the ban has been observed for years, the lack of proper interpretation on how it should be implemented has been a source of conflict.
Senior Minister at the Presidency, Yaw Osafo Maafo, who represented the President, said Government will convene a stakeholder meeting to look into it.
Other issues raised by the moderator include high cost of living, lack of textbooks in schools, wanton destruction of the environment, Galamsey, investment in Agriculture and Agenda 111 hospitals, as well as a reminder to government not to endorse same-sex marriage.
Mr Osafo Maafo said the church must champion the cause.
Also present were the Minister of Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Stephen Asamoah Boateng, and Volta Regional Minister, Dr Archibald Letsa. The three-day synod focuses on being holy in all activities.