The Chairman of the National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE), Mr. Larry Bimi has said so far as churches continue to spend precious time and scarce resources on weeklong activities Government's efforts to fight poverty would be an uphill task.

Most churches in the country in recent times have adopted as a regular feature on their calendar weeklong celebrations. Such weeklong events include revivals, retreats, conventions and counseling, among others. The programme line-up of some churches begins early in the mornings and ends late in the afternoons or evenings.

Speaking to ADM in an interview in Accra last week, Mr. Bimi said such worship centres do not only disrupt the peaceful atmosphere needed during working periods but also waste vitally needed productive hours.

He said the churches have also contributed to the level of poverty in the country because "the people spend majority of their time in the church".

Mr. Larry Bimi said he seldom goes to work on Thursdays because of noise from a church behind his office. He therefore called on the Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) to intervene.

Most Ghanaians may agree with the views of NCCE boss. However the constitution of Ghana states unambiguously that freedom of worship shall prevail in the country. How to balance the freedom to worship and productivity is the tricky question.

Touching on another issue, Mr. Bimi said government should promote freedom of speech and expression as stipulated by the constitution because it enhances democracy.

"When people talk then you get to know where the country is going. So we should not let people feel so cowed that they cannot talk."

He nonetheless reminded the public that while the constitution makes provision for free expression and opinion there is a limit.

He said: "The constitution says there should be freedom of speech but if you cross the line then you have brought it unto yourself. If you suppress somebody it is like you have corked his freedom to self expression. When the cork gets out it is just like an open Champagne bottle."