Richard Ahiagbah, the National Communications Director of Ghana’s opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), has launched a scathing critique of President John Dramani Mahama’s handling of Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462, a law permitting mining within the nation’s forest reserves. Ahiagbah accuses Mahama of backtracking on a campaign promise to repeal the legislation entirely, opting instead for a less impactful amendment that merely removes the presidential power to approve mining leases. This amendment, according to Ahiagbah, falls far short of the decisive action needed to protect Ghana’s vulnerable forest reserves and effectively endorses the continued exploitation of these crucial ecosystems. He argues that while the proposed amendment shifts the authority to grant mining leases, it does nothing to address the fundamental issue of mining activities within protected forest areas, thereby leaving the forests susceptible to further degradation.
Ahiagbah underscores the discrepancy between Mahama’s campaign rhetoric and his current actions. During his campaign, Mahama positioned himself as a staunch defender of the environment, pledging to revoke L.I. 2462 and implement a complete ban on mining in forest reserves. This stance resonated with environmentalists and citizens concerned about the destructive impacts of mining on Ghana’s natural heritage. However, Ahiagbah contends that Mahama’s current pursuit of a limited amendment represents a betrayal of this promise and a tacit acceptance of mining’s continued encroachment upon forested areas. He challenges Mahama’s commitment to environmental protection, questioning the sincerity of his earlier pronouncements and highlighting the perceived disconnect between his words and actions.
The NPP spokesperson emphasizes the significant environmental consequences if L.I. 2462 remains in effect, even in its amended form. He warns that the continued allowance of mining activities within forest reserves will inevitably lead to their “total destruction.” This destruction, Ahiagbah argues, will have far-reaching implications, impacting biodiversity, water resources, and the overall ecological balance of the country. He casts the issue as a matter of national importance, stressing the urgency of protecting these vital natural resources for future generations. Ahiagbah paints a stark picture of the potential consequences, emphasizing the irreversible damage that mining can inflict on these fragile ecosystems.
Ahiagbah draws a comparison between Mahama’s current stance and the previous administration of President Akufo-Addo, who also faced significant criticism for upholding L.I. 2462. He notes the irony of Mahama’s earlier criticisms of Akufo-Addo’s position, now seemingly mirrored in his own actions. This comparison serves to further highlight what Ahiagbah perceives as Mahama’s hypocrisy and his failure to deliver on his promises. By juxtaposing the two administrations, Ahiagbah strengthens his argument that Mahama is repeating the mistakes of his predecessor, despite having previously criticized the same policy.
The core of Ahiagbah’s argument rests on the demand for a complete repeal of L.I. 2462. He asserts that anything less than a full revocation of the law will be insufficient to protect Ghana’s forests. The proposed amendment, in his view, merely shuffles responsibility without addressing the underlying problem. He urges Mahama to honor his campaign commitment and demonstrate a genuine commitment to environmental preservation by repealing the legislation entirely. This, he argues, is the only way to effectively halt the ongoing degradation of Ghana’s forest reserves and ensure their long-term survival.
In concluding his critique, Ahiagbah directly addresses the Ghanaian public, appealing to their concern for environmental protection. He frames the issue as a matter of public trust, highlighting the broken promise made by President Mahama. He calls for public pressure on the government to fully repeal L.I. 2462, urging citizens to hold Mahama accountable for his campaign pledge. Ahiagbah’s message is clear: the proposed amendment is inadequate, and only a complete repeal of the law can safeguard Ghana’s precious forest reserves from the destructive impacts of mining. He emphasizes the importance of citizen engagement in demanding environmental accountability from their elected officials.
