The extension of the ban on social and public gathering to 31st May, 2020 by the president left a section of the general public disappointed as many were anticipating that the six (6) weeks old restrictions would be relaxed.

Lifting the ban would have paved way for schools, churches and other social activities to begin.

Prior to President Akufo-Addo’s ninth address to update the nation on COVID-19, some censured the Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) for advocating and pushing government to lift the ban regardless of the increase in Ghana COVID 19 case count.

Christian Council had in a statement enumerated measures that churches are expected to put in place in complying with all protocols should the ban be lifted allowing church activities to resume.

General Secretary of Christian Council of Ghana, Reverend Dr. Cyril Fayose on “Yensempa” morning show on Onua FM expressed disappointment in the general public for criticizing the Council’s position.

He told the host, Nana Yaw Opare that the Council from day one have supported measures from government including the ban on public gathering in curtailing spread of the novel corona virus.

“We completely support the position of the president; we have consistently said that the decision to lift the ban on social gathering is entirely that of the presidency,” he remarked.

“They have the expertise to be able to advise on such matters so we are expecting what is best for the country from the president and that is what exactly he did,” he added.

Reverend Fayose further explained the faith based organizations in the said release only sought to tell government how best churches could help curb spread of the COVID 19 should the ban be lifted.

“If the ban should be lifted it should be done gradually or we should be given time to prepare in implementing the guidelines.

“It can’t just be lifted and tomorrow you should expect us to be in church and be able to do all that we have outline,” he explained.

He was not happy about how the document on the guidelines was shared with the media which also went viral on social media, stressing that the Ccouncil sent it to a certain ministry for consideration and not for media publication.

He rejected claims that Council was by that guidelines, twisting the president’s arm to lift the ban.