Organised Labour, led by the Trades Union Congress (TUC), has issued a strong warning to the government, threatening a nationwide strike by the end of September if decisive measures are not taken to address the escalating galamsey (illegal mining) crisis.
In a statement from Joshua Ansah, Secretary General of the TUC, Organised Labour demanded the immediate declaration of a state of emergency in all areas affected by illegal mining.
They also called for a halt to all mining activities in forest reserves, the establishment of special courts to expedite the prosecution of galamsey operators, and the deployment of the military to remove and destroy mining equipment in the affected areas.
Mr. Ansah said the government’s failure to act swiftly and decisively on the galamsey menace has led to severe environmental degradation, including the destruction of rivers, farmlands, and forest reserves.
The statement warned that if no concrete action is taken by the end of September, Organised Labour will be left with no option but to launch a series of demonstrations and a nationwide strike to compel the government to act.
This demand by Organised Labour further intensifies the pressure on the government to take immediate and effective action against illegal mining, which continues to devastate Ghana’s natural resources and communities.
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