In a notable development within the Ga Mashie community, the Traditional Council has called upon 15 churches, which include prominent congregations like Calvary Baptist Church and Lighthouse Chapel, to explain their actions after allegedly violating a noise ordinance that came into effect on May 12. The regulation, aimed at limiting noise and drumming in the lead-up to the Homowo Festival, has stirred significant attention and concern among local leaders.
Asafoatse Mankatta, who heads the taskforce enforcing this temporary ban, confirmed the summons during an interview with Adom News, highlighting a troubling trend of non-compliance among some churches. “During their worship sessions, we observed that they continued to clap, in direct contravention of the council's directive,” Mankatta stated. Despite receiving official summons letters, he noted that several churches, including the respected Calvary Baptist, declined to accept them, further complicating the situation.
Mankatta expressed his astonishment at the apparent disregard for the council’s orders, particularly from Calvary Baptist, a church held in high esteem within the community. “It was surprising to witness their actions as if the directive didn't exist or matter,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of adherence to the council’s guidelines.
The Traditional Council has set a date for the churches to appear before them on Thursday, May 22, amidst stark warnings of serious repercussions for those who fail to comply. “We take these breaches seriously,” Mankatta asserted. He clarified that while clapping and drumming are prohibited during this period, congregations are still allowed to sing. He also provided guidance for churches that have soundproofed facilities, stating that they would be exempt from the restrictions as their noise would not permeate into the community.
The broader implications of this ban include restrictions on clapping, use of loudspeakers outside places of worship, and any form of street preaching or evangelism utilizing megaphones or tambourines, whether indoors or outdoors. These measures are part of the customary rites leading up to the Homowo Festival, a significant cultural celebration.
As the deadline for compliance approaches, Mankatta urged the Christian community to respect the directives laid down by the Traditional Council, announcing that starting next Sunday, the enforcement of these rules would be intensified. He stressed the necessity for unity and cooperation within the community, especially during this festive season, to ensure a harmonious blend of faith and tradition.