011774 Ghana Bishops Call Abortion Disaster'



ACCRA, Ghana (RNS) The Catholic bishops of this West African country have denounced what they called "the criminal practice of abortion. "

In a joint pastoral letter, the bishops expressed their "deep concern" about a reported spread of abortions in Ghana, describing it as "a moral scourge and a true national disaster.

Colonel Ignatius Kufu Acheampong, who led a military coup against the Ghanian government and assumed power as head of state in 1972, is Catholic. Abortion is illegal in Ghana.

In recent days, however, there has been considerable discussion and debate in the Ghanian press over the issue of abortion. Charges of  widespread illegal abortions in the country have been met by demands for legalization of the operation.

The bishops, in their letter, stressed that the "right of life" is "fundamental for every human being," and should be defended by everyone.