The National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has made a startling revelation about the ongoing galamsey crisis.
He claimed that, the real culprits behind illegal mining activities are being protected while only the laborers are being arrested.
“Those they arrest are not the real galamseyers. The leaders or ministers who hold concessions are not being arrested, and that is a disservice to the laborers” he said in an interview on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem Friday.
He accused the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government of failing Ghanaians on galamsey.
“The NPP government has failed Ghanaians on galamsey as they are all part of it. Their record is not good.”
In his view, the problem should not be confused with legitimate mining, which, if done responsibly, can benefit citizens sustainably.
“Natural resources are meant to support citizens responsibly and sustainably. Even South Africa started mining years ago but has not had any problems because they are using legitimate means to mine” he said.
He the NDC chairman therefore slammed the government’s approach, arguing that banning mining entirely is not the solution.
“The government’s role in managing the system is poor. Banning it completely is not the way to go but ensuring that natural resources are exploited in a responsible manner” he said.
Mr. Nketia added that if the NDC comes to power, former President John Mahama has promised that no appointee will be given a license for galamsey, or else the fight will be in vain.
His comments follow a national security meeting aimed at assessing the impact of galamsey on river bodies and the environment. Organised Labour has warned the government of a nationwide strike by the end of September if decisive action is not taken.
Other groups, including religious leaders, have expressed similar concerns.
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