In a press conference that stirred controversy today, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, a prominent member of Ghana’s National Democratic Congress (NDC), accused President Nana Akufo-Addo and his New Patriotic Party (NPP) government of having vested interests in illegal mining, hindering efforts to curb the environmentally destructive practice.
Ofosu stated, “The inability to effectively address the issue of illegal mining in the country is directly linked to the interests that President Akufo-Addo and his government have in this sector. It’s a matter of political will, and unfortunately, the will to stop illegal mining seems to be lacking when it comes to the current administration.”
The NDC member alleged that the government’s ties to illegal mining operations are undermining the fight against galamsey, as the informal mining is locally known. Ofosu argued that political affiliations and economic interests are overshadowing the urgency to combat the environmental and social consequences associated with illegal mining.
Illegal mining has been a longstanding issue in Ghana, causing deforestation, water pollution, and displacement of communities. Efforts to curb these activities have faced challenges, and Ofosu’s claims add a political dimension to the ongoing debate.
The NDC representative called for an independent investigation into the alleged connections between the government and illegal mining operations, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in addressing the issue.
In response to these allegations, government officials have vehemently denied any involvement in or endorsement of illegal mining activities. The Akufo-Addo administration maintains that they are committed to tackling the challenges associated with galamsey through various initiatives and policies.
As accusations and counterstatements fly, this development adds fuel to the already heated discourse on illegal mining in Ghana, prompting citizens to scrutinize the government’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable resource management. The call for an impartial investigation further underscores the gravity of the issue and the imperative for swift action to address the concerns raised by the NDC.
story filed by: Nana kwaku Duah
