Jerome Nsoh, a member of the Conveners of Concerned Citizens Against Galamsey, has warned that if immediate action is not taken, Ghana may have to import drinking water by 2030. He cited the severe destruction of river bodies and forests due to illegal mining activities as the primary cause of this impending crisis.
Nsoh expressed his belief that political leadership has failed the nation, calling on all concerned Ghanaians to unite and demand that authorities take action to stop galamsey immediately. He made these remarks during the Adekyee Mu Nsem morning show on Ahotor 92.3 FM, hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu in Accra.
He announced a planned three-day protest aimed at pressing the government and various institutions to impose a ban on galamsey in order to protect the country’s water bodies. The protest will culminate in a vigil at Independence Square, featuring a documentary screening on the devastation of forests and water resources in mining areas across the country. At the conclusion of each day’s events, organizers will submit their demands to Parliament, the government, and the Ministry of Lands and Mines.
In a related development, the Ghana Police Service has stated that it will hold the organizers of the Concerned Citizens Against Galamsey demonstration, scheduled for October 3-5, 2024, accountable for any breaches of the law during the event.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the police reminded the organizers of their responsibilities under the Public Order Act, which includes being liable for any damage to public property during the demonstration.
“Participants in the demonstration must comply with police directions to ensure the proper movement of people and vehicles, and to maintain order. Any individual attending a special event should conduct themselves in a manner that avoids causing traffic obstruction, confusion, or disorder,” the statement read.
The police further outlined their responsibilities under the Public Order Act, which include assisting in the proper conduct of the event, directing routes to prevent obstruction of pedestrian and vehicular traffic, and dispersing crowds if a breach of the peace is likely or occurring.
The police assured the public that sufficient security measures would be implemented to maintain law and order, ensuring peace and safety during the demonstration and beyond.
Story by: Alexander Kukah
