Some recently bailed #StopGalamseyNow protesters have condemned Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh’s comments about the NPP’s decision not to impose a ban on illegal mining.
They described his statements as a troubling display of power that prioritizes political and personal interests over the well-being of the environment and local communities.
The protesters criticized Dr. Opoku Prempeh’s position, arguing that his refusal to support a ban on illegal mining disregards the overwhelming evidence of environmental destruction caused by such activities. They emphasized that his focus on empowering small-scale miners, without addressing the illegalities and devastation associated with galamsey, reflects a disconnect from the harsh realities faced by many Ghanaians.
According to the protesters, this flawed approach places profit above sustainable practices, undermining efforts to preserve natural resources for future generations.
They also condemned Kwabena Agyapong’s dismissal of anti-galamsey protests as politically motivated, calling it an arrogant and offensive response to the many Ghanaians whose livelihoods and environments have been destroyed by illegal mining.
They also criticized Mr. Agyapong’s suggestion that protesters should take their demonstrations to galamsey sites, calling it a sign of ignorance about the role of state institutions.
They stressed that, under Article 257, the relevant government agencies responsible for addressing galamsey are based in Accra, and this attempt to shift the focus away from calls for accountability only goes to undermine citizens’ pleas for urgent action against the crisis.