Richard Ahiagbah, the Director of Communications for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has launched a scathing attack on the Mahama-led National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration, accusing them of failing to combat illegal mining, popularly known as “galamsey,” and contributing to a resurgence of environmental degradation. He argues that the current administration’s perceived leniency towards galamsey operators, stemming from alleged campaign promises, has emboldened them to resume their destructive activities. This, Ahiagbah contends, is a direct consequence of the choices made by the Ghanaian electorate in the 2020 general elections, a decision he now portrays as having detrimental effects on both the environment and democratic rights.
Ahiagbah’s central argument revolves around the idea that the NDC, under President Mahama, is not prioritizing the fight against galamsey. He paints a picture of a return to the pre-2016 era, a period he characterizes as being rife with environmental destruction due to rampant illegal mining. He suggests that the NDC’s supposed lack of commitment to environmental protection stems from political expediency, specifically campaign promises made to galamsey operators. These promises, according to Ahiagbah, have created a sense of impunity among illegal miners, emboldening them to disregard environmental regulations and further their destructive practices.
The NPP spokesperson links the alleged resurgence of galamsey directly to the outcome of the 2020 elections, portraying it as a consequence of the electorate’s decision. He argues that the current environmental degradation and perceived erosion of democratic rights are the direct result of the choices made at the ballot box. This framing seeks to place responsibility for the current situation on the shoulders of the voters who chose the NDC, implying that they are now experiencing the repercussions of their decision.
Ahiagbah’s press conference served as a platform to not only criticize the NDC’s handling of the galamsey issue but also to rally public support against the practice. He called for a collective effort to combat illegal mining, emphasizing the importance of environmental protection and the preservation of democratic rights. This appeal for unity transcends partisan politics, framing the fight against galamsey as a national imperative that requires the participation of all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations.
By linking the alleged resurgence of galamsey to the 2020 election results, Ahiagbah aims to highlight the perceived consequences of electing the NDC. This narrative serves a dual purpose: it criticizes the current administration’s environmental policies while simultaneously promoting the NPP as a more responsible steward of the environment. It reinforces the idea that the choice between the two parties has tangible consequences, with the NPP positioning itself as the better choice for protecting Ghana’s natural resources and upholding democratic principles.
In essence, Ahiagbah’s message focuses on the perceived failure of the NDC to address the galamsey menace, attributing this failure to political maneuvering and alleged appeasement of illegal miners. He uses the current situation to portray the NPP as the more responsible party, urging Ghanaians to reconsider their choices in future elections. He frames the fight against galamsey not just as an environmental issue but also as a defense of democratic values, broadening the appeal and seeking to galvanize public support for his party’s position.
