The Convention People’s Party (CPP) has raised concerns over the ongoing politicization of efforts to combat illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey.” This destructive practice has led to the degradation of major river bodies and the depletion of arable land across the country. The CPP emphasizes that the galamsey problem is not new, having plagued successive governments since 1992, and calls for a unified, non-partisan approach to address the crisis.
In a statement, the CPP cited a study by the Third World Network (Ghana) in 2007, which documented the adverse effects of mining activities on surrounding communities. The research revealed that mining communities are often left worse off, especially in terms of socio-economic development. Successive governments have struggled to manage the menace, with former ministers under the John Mahama administration, such as Inusah Fuseni and Mahama Ayariga, facing significant challenges in curbing illegal mining.
The issue became particularly contentious in 2012 and 2013 with the rise of foreign involvement in small-scale gold mining, particularly by Chinese miners. Research by the International Growth Center (IGC) highlighted the impact of this foreign involvement, prompting the creation of an Inter-Ministerial Task Force under President Mahama’s government. Despite these efforts, the results fell short of expectations, and the problem has persisted.
As the country approaches another general election in December, the CPP expresses dismay that the fight against galamsey has been marred by partisan blame games. According to the party, political point-scoring should not take precedence over the national interest. Instead, all citizens must unite to save Ghana’s environment.
The CPP commended Organized Labour for prioritizing the nation by rescinding their decision to embark on a strike. The party also called on the government to implement a temporary ban on small- and medium-scale mining to allow for a comprehensive review of the sector.
In a bid to further involve citizens in the fight against illegal mining, the CPP proposed “Operation See Galamseyer, Report Galamseyer.” This initiative encourages citizens to report illegal mining activities in their communities to local authorities, including unit committee members, assembly members, chiefs, and the police. The CPP also opened its constituency and regional offices to assist citizens in cases where local authorities fail to take action, pledging legal support through its legal affairs committee.
The CPP’s National Communications Director, Osei Kofi Acquah, stressed that while peaceful demonstrations to highlight the issue are important, the fight against galamsey requires collective action from all Ghanaians.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Emmanuel Mensah
