Labour expert Austin Gamey has joined the growing calls for a stronger leadership in addressing the illegal mining challenge, also known as galamsey.

According to him, both the president and the flagbearers of the major political parties must jointly lead efforts to combat the menace.

Speaking on JoyNews the Pulse on September 12, Mr Gamey highlighted the urgent need for high-level leadership, stressing that this is not an issue that can be left to a single minister.

He believes that the president, together with the flagbearer of the major opposition party, should co-chair a committee to tackle the galamsey issue.

“We all know that when the last tree is gone, we are all gone. Therefore, it is important that we protect our own interests. Nobody can come from anywhere to do it for us. I support the call for the leadership of the country.

“This is not something they should delegate to a minister. Both the flagbearer and the President should co-chair this meeting and ensure that the discussion is devoid of political positions,” he said.

His comments follow concerns by stakeholders over the environmental devastation caused by galamsey.

Mr Gamey’s proposal aligns with the calls from several stakeholders, including the convener of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, Dr. Ing. Ken Ashigbey.

Dr Ashigbey recently urged the president to step in, stressing that the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources may be overwhelmed by the crisis.

In an earlier statement, Dr. Ashigbey called on President Akufo-Addo to address the issue with the same urgency and consistency with which he communicated to the nation during the COVID-19 pandemic.