Several Ghanaian Pastors Accused of Sexual Molestation, Incest and Sexual Misconduct

The Christian Council of Ghana says it is embarrassed by reports of sexual misconduct by some self acclaimed church leaders.

Even though the practice denigrates the institution of Christendom, Rev Fred Deegbe, General Secretary of the Council told Joy News that congregations must scrutinise the behaviour of their leaders.

He said the council can do very little to regulate activities of church leaders conducted in the privacy of their rooms.

Rev. Deegbe's comments come in the wake of numerous reports of pastors accused of sexually molesting members of their congregations.

Head pastor of Jesus One-Touch Church at Oblogo in the Greater Accra Region, Nana Kofi Yirenkyi, is alleged to have had sex with his 10-year-old daughter.

He is in police custody pending further investigation and a possible prosecution. His alleged misdemeanour comes only days after another pastor in the Brong Ahafo, Ogya Nyame of the Holy Fire Pentecostal Church at Goaso was accused of fondling the private parts of the lady congregants in his church all in the name of spiritual healing.

Describing the allegations as unfortunate, Rev. Deegbe said the council cannot advocate for a law that will close down any church whose leader is found guilty of sexual molestation.

"I'm afraid the council cannot make such law or advocate for the passing of such a law."

"As you pointed out, there are people who go to those churches. The Bible itself is clear that by their fruits you shall know them. So if [the person] you are following is not bearing good fruits over a period of time, what they are teaching is not in the bible, their own behaviour and conduct is not acceptable," then you have to take a decision on your own he said.