A statement signed and copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra by Mr Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, Ranking Member of the Lands and Natural Resources Committee, and an NPP Member of Parliament for Mampong, criticized the government for allocating GH¢ 50 million to combat illegal mining, yet seeing no tangible results.
It said: “The NDC Government has failed woefully and embarrassingly in dealing with galamsey.”
The statement highlighted the devastating impact of galamsey on the environment, citing the destruction of water bodies and ecosystems, and the poisoning of waters that threatened future generations.
According to the statement, the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), had also expressed concerns over the government’s inaction, warning that the situation had reached a boiling point.
“UTAG has given the government an ultimatum, demanding immediate action to address the menace, including public denouncement of galamsey, declaration of a state of emergency, and prosecution of complicit officials.
“This is no longer a political debate – it is a moral emergency,” it stated.
It also noted that the Trades Union Congress (TUC) had also joined the chorus of criticism, with its Secretary General allegedly calling out the government’s half-hearted approach to tackling illegal mining.
The statement cited instances where alleged government machinery, such as DRIP machines, had been diverted for illegal mining activities.
“Some of the very people in power are deeply complicit. They issue the permits. They look the other way. They protect the syndicates. They benefit,” the Minority Caucus alleged.
GNA
