The Convener of the Anti-Galamsey Coalition, Dr. Ken Ashigbey has issued a passionate call for the arrest of Nicholas Amankwah, the Member of Parliament for Amenfi East, amidst allegations of his complicity in illegal mining activities within his constituency.
The controversy stems from an exposé by environmental journalist Erastus Asare Donkor, who reported that Mr. Amankwah intervened on behalf of illegal miners during a military-led operation targeting galamsey activities in Wassa Japa. According to the report, the MP openly defended the miners, an act Dr. Ashigbey described as a betrayal of the national fight against environmental degradation.
In an interview reacting to the allegations, Dr. Ashigbey minced no words in condemning the MP’s actions, citing their detrimental impact on efforts to curb illegal mining.
“Under Act 995, an MP who knowingly supports and defends illegal activities is complicit in the crime. Nicholas Amankwah’s actions undermine every attempt to safeguard our environment and enforce the law. It is heartbreaking to witness the government’s inaction against self-confessed violators and enablers like this MP,” Dr. Ashigbey lamented.
He emphasized the need for swift and decisive action, insisting that holding public officials accountable is crucial to restoring public trust and effectively combating galamsey.
“The devastation caused by galamsey is clear for all to see—polluted rivers, degraded forests, and shattered livelihoods. We can not allow leaders who are supposed to champion development to instead shield those destroying our future. The law must take its course without fear or favour,” Dr. Ashigbey asserted.
The Anti-Galamsey Coalition has repeatedly called for intensified efforts to eradicate illegal mining, which continues to wreak havoc on Ghana’s environment and economy. This latest call to action underscores the coalition’s unwavering commitment to the fight against galamsey and the need for accountability at all levels of governance.
Dr. Ashigbey’s call has reignited the debate on the role of political leaders in the galamsey crisis, placing the spotlight on the government’s willingness to enforce environmental laws even when powerful individuals are implicated.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
