The Christian Council of Ghana (CCG) has issued a strong warning to prophets and religious leaders against spreading false or misleading prophecies that could incite fear, panic, or disrupt public peace.

In statements released on February 24, the Council emphasized that while the constitutional right to freedom of religion is protected under Article 21 of the 1992 Constitution, it is not absolute and must be exercised responsibly to safeguard public order and the rights of others.

The Council cited legal frameworks supporting its stance.

Section 208 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29) criminalizes the publication of false statements or rumours likely to disturb public peace, with penalties of fines or up to five years’ imprisonment.

The Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775), also prohibits spreading misleading information electronically that may cause public alarm.

The CCG cautioned that religious leaders who propagate such messages could face prosecution.

The warning particularly addressed political prophecies following the New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer primaries on January 31, 2026.

While some prophets correctly predicted former Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia’s re-election, others did not.

The Council raised concerns that conflicting predictions risk portraying God as inconsistent or indecisive, potentially undermining religious credibility.

They urged prophets to broaden their focus beyond elections, tackling societal issues such as corruption, nepotism, poor governance, intolerance, and preventable deaths in hospitals.

The CCG encouraged decorum, theological integrity, and ethical responsibility, emphasizing that authentic prophecy should promote peace, tolerance, patriotism, environmental stewardship, and the common good.

While acknowledging that many prophets are not affiliated with ecumenical bodies such as the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC) or the National Association of Charismatic and Christian Churches (NACCC), the Council’s message remains clear: religious influence should be constructive and socially responsible.

As the Christian community observes Lent and Muslims mark Ramadan, the Council called for reflection on socio-economic justice and national prosperity, advocating for a responsible and ethical religious environment in 2026 and beyond.