According to the Managing Director of the State Transport Corporation (STC), the New Patriotic Party government has not been able to defeat the threat of illicit mining, also referred to as galamsey, with sufficient success.
He claims that in spite of the government’s tremendous efforts, it has not been able to defeat the canker, which has damaged numerous farms and bodies of water.
One of President Akufo-Addo’s primary priorities upon taking office was combating galamsey, which prompted the President to risk his presidency in the process.
Among other policy initiatives, Operation Vanguard and Operation Halt were launched as part of his quest to combat galamsey.
“I have said it in the Cabinet, and perhaps this is the first time I am making this public, that I am prepared to put my Presidency on the line on this matter,” the President said at a workshop on galamsey for traditional leaders.
This dream is yet to be realised after almost eight years of assuming office as President.
However, in an interview on Accra based Joy FM, the former Member of Parliament for Okaikwei South emphasised the persistent challenges in combating illegal mining.
“Every President has made efforts to stop illegal mining in the country, but despite their commitment and efforts, the results remain unsatisfactory,” he said.
His comments come on the wheel of a recent comment made by the Parliamentary candidate for Amenfi East, Ernest Frimpong, who was captured in a video telling illegal miners to deal with any military officer who tries to interfere with their illegal activities.
Relatedly, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary candidate (PC) for the Amenfi East constituency in the Western region has come under heavy criticism for allegedly inciting small-scale miners to attack military officers who prevent them from mining.
Mr. Frimpong, who has explained that, the actual intentions of comments have been misconstrued have been granted bail after the police arrested him.
Nana Akomea posited that, the fight against the illegal mining is a daunting task which demands a collective efforts from all and sundry.
