Founder and leader of Ghana Union Movement (GUM), Rev Christian Kwabena Andrew has, among many policies, hinted of legalising illegal mining, known in Ghana as ‘galamsey’ when voted into power come December 7.
Speaking at the launch of his party’s constitution and 2020 manifesto, Osofo Kyiri Abosom, as he is popularly known, said legalising galamsey would benefit both licensed and unlicensed operators to ensure everyone interested in mining has the liberty to do so.
When I’m voted into power, galamsey will be free for everyone to put money into everybody’s pocket. For the gold, we will continue mining so far as the ground permits, he declared.
To ensure there are no adverse effects of his policy, Osofo Kyiri Abosom explained, a committee financed by the galamsey operators will be set up solely for planting trees, cover the mining pits, and with excavators, level the mining grounds.
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He also served notice of his plans to extend drivers’ license renewal to ten years as well as provide government buses to convey pupils to school.
He added that long-serving prisoners, under his presidency, will be released with the exemption of those locked up for murder charges .
Osofo Kyiri Abosom said his government will extend a monthly stipend to every citizen above 60 years, irrespective of their profession prior to retirement.
On how he intends to fund his ideas, the pastor-cum-politician said money would be generated from taxes imposed on countries that demand huge fees for visas.