Joshua Hamidu Akamba, the immediate past National Organizer for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has fiercely criticized the New Patriotic Party (NPP), calling them “shameless” over their mishandling of illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
According to Mr. Akamba, the devastation caused by galamsey is beyond measure—farmlands are being degraded, and water bodies are heavily polluted—yet the NPP seems more concerned with securing votes in the upcoming elections than addressing the crisis.
Kwaku Asante-Boateng, the Member of Parliament for Asante Akim South from the NPP, acknowledged that the government’s hesitance in tackling galamsey stems from fears of losing electoral support.
He pointed out that in 2020, the party’s tough stance on galamsey led to significant losses in several mining communities, making the NPP reluctant to take similar action ahead of the upcoming December 7 elections.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, October 2, Mr. Asante-Boateng highlighted the potential political fallout of imposing a total ban on illegal mining activities.
He explained that such a move could lead to a loss of votes in areas where galamsey is widespread, influencing the government’s cautious approach.
The MP further argued that this political balancing act is not unique to the NPP—any party attempting to address illegal mining in regions dependent on small-scale mining would face similar challenges.
Mr. Asante-Boateng defended the government’s careful stance, citing the need to balance environmental preservation with political realities.
However, he urged the government to find ways to regulate mining activities while minimizing political risks, emphasizing the importance of addressing the environmental impact without alienating voters.
Reacting to these statements on Ahotor FM’s morning show ‘Adekyee Mu Nsem’ with host Citizen Kofi Owusu, Joshua Akamba called for decisive action against politicians who support illegal mining activities.
He said the Inspector General of Police (IGP) should not hesitate to arrest any MP openly endorsing galamsey, especially considering the severe consequences of these activities on the environment and people’s livelihoods.
Mr. Akamba also warned that the NPP has shown a clear lack of commitment in the fight against illegal mining.
According to him, the only way to save the country from the destructive impacts of galamsey is to vote the NPP out of power.
He firmly believes that former President John Mahama and the NDC are the right choices to turn the fortunes of the country around.
Expressing his confidence in the upcoming 2024 elections, Mr. Akamba stated that John Mahama would emerge victorious, not only reclaiming the presidency but also leading the NDC to secure a majority in parliament.
He concluded by assuring Ghanaians that an NDC government would prioritize the protection of natural resources and address the galamsey menace with the seriousness it deserves.
Story by: Emmanuel Romeo Tetteh (#RomeoWrites✍️) / Ahotoronline.com | Ghana🇬🇭
