The Convener of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, Dr. Ken Ashigbey has criticized the government for its lack of action in addressing illegal mining (galamsey) despite repeated calls from civil society organizations (CSOs).
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, December 5, at the Ghana International Press Centre in Accra, Dr. Ashigbey expressed frustration over the government’s failure to declare a state of emergency to tackle galamsey. He noted that although organized labor recently supported such a declaration, the government did not follow through.
He also highlighted the short-lived “Operation Halt,” an initiative aimed at combating galamsey. Military personnel deployed to protect water bodies were withdrawn after just one week, allowing illegal mining activities to resume, particularly along the Birim River. The Coalition, in response, had to engage small-scale miners to take action, leading to the arrest of some illegal miners. However, Dr. Ashigbey lamented the lack of follow-ups on these cases.
He criticized Parliament for prioritizing partisan disputes over critical national issues, such as repealing Legislative Instrument (LI) 2462, which governs mining activities. He revealed that after the elections, the Coalition plans to submit a Right to Information (RTI) request to the Minerals Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to understand why permits continue to be issued for mining in forests and water bodies.
Dr. Ashigbey also mentioned that six presidential candidates contesting the upcoming elections have signed a pact committing to end galamsey. He warned that the Coalition would not allow any “honeymoon” period for the winner. From January 7, 2025, when the new president is sworn in, the Coalition will pressure the administration to honor its commitments.
He assured Ghanaians that the Coalition, alongside other CSOs, will intensify efforts to end galamsey and called on the public and the media to support the fight against illegal mining.
By: Nana Antwi Boasiako
