The convener of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining has strongly advocated for a unified approach from Ghana’s two main political parties—NPP and NDC—in the fight against illegal mining (galamsey).
Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey in an interview on Joy News’ PM Express on Monday highlighted the Coalition’s calls for the declaration of a state of emergency on illegal mining, stressing the critical role both political parties must play in addressing the issue.
He stated that both parties have a stake in this fight, noting that illegal mining has infiltrated the political system, with galamsey funds even supporting election campaigns.
“The Speaker of Parliament himself has indicted MPs from both parties, pointing out that galamsey money funds our politics,” he said, urging the government and opposition to take a firm stand.
“This is not just about votes—it’s about the future of our country.”
Dr. Ashigbey called on the NPP’s Vice President and the NDC’s presidential candidate to publicly declare their unwavering support for the fight against galamsey, drawing parallels to the unified front Israel presents in its battle with Hamas.
“I’m hoping both parties embrace this fight. Just like how Israel has come together against Hamas, we too must unite. This is about our survival. Nature is punishing us for our irresponsibility—the droughts, the loss of forest cover, and soon, we won’t even have polluted water to drink if we don’t act now,” he cautioned.
He also criticised the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its failure to enforce mining regulations, citing a company in the Western Region that continues to flout an EPA stop order.
“When you have someone mining close to water bodies, it’s a crime. You don’t just issue a letter; you arrest them,” he said.
Dr Ashigbey concluded by stressing the need for all parties to come together in a responsible mining framework.
“Whoever wins the elections, come January 2025, we must sit together and figure out how to mine responsibly and restore our water bodies. This is a national emergency, and both NPP and NDC must lead the charge.”
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