The police have observed that the law against the publication of doom prophecies has protected the rights and freedoms of those who are normally affected by these prophecies.
In addition, the Police said, it has fostered a society free of needless panic, fear, and alarm.
As part of efforts to control the rate at which some men of God, especially prophets put fear into Ghanaians through prophecies, the Police have reminded the general public, especially the religious community, of the law on Publication of false news and urges its continuous compliance.
The Police expressed gratitude to faith-based groups and individuals, for their compliance with the law so far, particularly in communicating prophecies.
“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 Police will like to remind the public that while we have the right to practice our faith and freedom of speech as guaranteed by our constitution and democratic values, we want to reiterate that the enjoyment of these rights are subject to respect for the rights and freedoms of others and for the public interest.
“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. In the spirit of the season, we wish everyone Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year,” the statement said.
Following this directive which was first issued in 2021, the prophets were unable to deliver their prophecies in the manner that they had earlier been doing.
For instance, Founder and Leader of the Prophetic Chapel Hill Prophet Nigel Gaisie said he delivered some of his prophecies for the year 2021 in a manner that wouldn’t disregard the directive given by the Police.
After delivering all his prophecies on the 31st night, he urged his church members and all others that “These are the only prophecies I have for you, if I have seen death and you don’t want me to tell you that is ok, I won’t be used as the scapegoat.”
He had earlier said he would give his prophecies no matter what the revelations were because he was not a coward to be intimidated by the warning against the publication of death prophecies.
“I read it somewhere that you have to bring material evidence of the prophecy. Who has ever dreamt and has material evidence of your dream? The greater component of prophecy is a dream. What they are saying doesn’t wash but for me, we will have a way.
“We will cross, I will prophesy in all confidence, there will not be any shadow of doubt that, I will speak the mind of God. Personally, I am not one of the cowards, I have been called by God, I have an assignment and whoever is coming after the church is making a big mistake,” he told TV3 in an interview.
The Leader of the Glorious Word Power Ministries Rev. Owusu Bempah who was also unhappy with the directive cautioned the Inspector General of Police against enforcing laws on prophets and their activities in Ghana.
“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.
He added that his actions might breed dire consequences on the nation should that happen.
“I’m pleading with you, don’t touch pastors, preachers, prophets and anything Christians 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.”
The end of 2023 is fast approaching.
The prophets, as usual, will be delivering their forecast into 2024.