Presidential Envoy for Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations, Elvis Afriyie Ankrah, has cautioned prophets and spiritual leaders to adhere to the government’s new directive on the handling of sensitive prophecies, warning that those who disregard it will face intense public scrutiny.

Speaking on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News on Monday, August 11, Mr. Afriyie Ankrah clarified that the directive carries no legal sanctions but stressed that “society will judge” those who refuse to comply.

“There is nothing like an arrest when they defy the directive, but society will judge them if they don’t obey,” he said.

“They used to complain that they did not have access to victims, and now they have been given access.”

The directive, issued by the Office of the Presidential Envoy on Sunday, August 10, calls on religious leaders to submit any prophecy or spiritual insight of national significance to the office for urgent review.

It applies especially to revelations involving high-profile political figures, governance, national security, and matters that could affect public stability.

The move follows a surge of prophecies circulating online in the aftermath of the August 6 military helicopter crash in Adansi Akrofuom District, Ashanti Region, which killed eight prominent Ghanaians.

The victims included Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah; Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Muniru Mohammed; former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye; and NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong. Also killed were Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.

On Sunday, August 10, a memorial was held for Dr. Murtala Muhammed and Muniru Mohammed ahead of a state funeral for all eight victims, scheduled for Friday, August 15, at the Black Star Square.

Mr. Afriyie Ankrah emphasised that the directive is not aimed at silencing religious leaders but rather at encouraging responsible communication to prevent fear, misinformation, and instability