The Catholic Church in Ghana have raised concerns following the violent attack on three priests of the Franciscan Capuchin Order, who were assaulted while carrying out their mission to establish a Formation House for the community at St. Michael Parish in Kpassa, Nkwanta North District.
This incident which occurred on December 11, 2024, has caused worry and concern by leaders and lay faithful of the Diocese of Jasikan.
In a joint statement, the Bishop, clergy, religious, and lay faithful of the Diocese of Jasikan expressed their worry, describing the attack as “unjustifiable” and “barbaric.”
They emphasized that the priests were engaged in a noble endeavor aimed at benefiting the local community and the nation as a whole. They have called for immediate action from authorities to bring the attackers to justice and ensure the safety of all citizens, particularly foreign missionaries.
“We take this unwarranted attack very seriously,” the statement read. “Such brutality is unacceptable and deserves condemnation from all people of goodwill. We call on all parties involved to exercise restraint and allow the law to take its course.”
The priests, who are Indian missionaries, were reportedly attacked while accompanying a bulldozer to clear land they had acquired for the construction of a school. The assailants accused them of attempting to steal equipment related to the District Road Improvement Program (DRIP).
The National Union of Ghana Catholic Diocesan Priests’ Associations (NUGCDPA) have also condemned the attack in a statement, highlighting that such actions have no place in a country that upholds the rule of law. The union expressed solidarity with the affected priests and urged the Diocese of Jasikan to pursue justice vigorously.
“We assure them of our support in action and prayers… we commend the Ghana Police Service for commencing investigations into this matter.”
They have called for swift action from law enforcement stating that failure to address this violence could lead to long-term adverse effects on community relations and international perceptions of Ghana.
Meanwhile, leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Nkwanta South have also expressed deep concern and sorrow over the attack on the Catholic missionaries by local youths.
In a statement released to the press, the party condemned the violence, describing it as a “heinous act that undermines the core values of society.”
The NDC emphasized that the efforts of these missionaries to humanitarian work deserves respect.
“Your selfless dedication to serving humanity and spreading the message of love and compassion deserves utmost respect and gratitude. ,” the statement read.
The party acknowledged the missionaries’ significant contributions to community development, education, and healthcare, noting that their presence has been a source of hope and peace for many.
In response to the incident, NDC leadership have visited the victims to check on their well-being and to offer apologies for the distress caused by the attack.
“We extend our sincerest apologies to our Catholic missionaries and the entire Catholic community,” the statement concluded. “May God bless and protect you as you continue your noble service to humanity.”
By Veronica Sena Amenya//Newswatchgh.com
