The New Patriotic Party (NPP) Member of Parliament for Subin, Eugene Boakye Antwi, has called on President Akufo-Addo to take decisive action against government officials who have failed to effectively combat the galamsey menace.
His appeal comes amidst growing frustration over the government’s inability to curb illegal mining activities that have wreaked havoc on the environment and local communities.
Speaking in an interview with JoyNews on Thursday, October 3, Mr Antwi stressed the detrimental impact of galamsey on the nation’s water bodies, forests, and agricultural lands.
He insisted that the continued degradation of the environment poses a significant threat to the livelihoods of many Ghanaians, particularly those in rural areas dependent on these resources for their survival.
The lawmaker’s remarks resonate with the concerns of many citizens who are increasingly disillusioned with the government’s efforts to address the issue.
Mr Antwi specifically pointed out that certain government officials have not only failed to implement existing policies effectively but have also allowed illegal mining operations to flourish under their watch.
He believes that accountability is crucial and that officials who are not performing their duties should be held responsible for their inaction.
The MP urged the President to consider their dismissal as a necessary step toward restoring public trust and demonstrating a genuine commitment to tackling the galamsey crisis.
“If we know the people doing the illegal mining, if they are party people or political opponents, let’s walk in there and get them arrested and make them face the law. This party will be better served in government than in opposition because of the corrupt or illegal position of certain employees.”
“We are not going to condone it. I am an NPP person and I am not going to sit here and condone an illegality. Something that I have not been part of, why should I come and support or defend it,” he insisted.
The Subin MP’s view contradicts that of other NPP MPs who believe that any attempt to deal with galamsey at this time will cause the party to lose votes in the impending general elections.
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