Paragraph 1: The NDC’s Stance on Galamsey
Benjamin Kofi Quashie, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Council of Elders Chair for South Africa, vehemently denounced illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, asserting its incompatibility with President John Dramani Mahama’s administration. He emphasized the President’s unwavering commitment to eradicating this environmental menace. Quashie, in a radio interview, revealed that law enforcement agencies, acting on presidential directives, have initiated operations to remove illegal miners from protected forest reserves and water bodies. This action, he explained, commenced immediately after the NDC’s electoral victory, underscoring the government’s prioritization of this critical issue. The devastating consequences of galamsey, particularly its long-term impact on future generations, necessitate swift and decisive action, according to Quashie.
Paragraph 2: The Intergenerational Impact of Environmental Destruction
Quashie articulated the profound consequences of environmental degradation caused by galamsey, highlighting its detrimental effects on water bodies and forest reserves, resources crucial for the well-being of future generations. He argued that responsible leadership entails safeguarding the environment for posterity, ensuring that succeeding generations benefit from the resources preserved today, even if they weren’t involved in their initial development. This principle, he asserted, is central to President Mahama’s vision for Ghana. He criticized the politicization of the galamsey issue, which has hindered previous efforts to effectively address the problem.
Paragraph 3: A New Era in Galamsey Enforcement
The appointment of a new Minister of Lands and Natural Resources signals a paradigm shift in the fight against galamsey, according to Quashie. The minister’s directives indicate a "no business as usual" approach, promising stricter enforcement and a departure from the previous leniency. Quashie emphasized that no individual, regardless of their affiliation with the NDC or their contributions to the party, will be exempt from the consequences of engaging in galamsey. Party loyalty, he insisted, will not shield anyone involved in illegal mining. He expressed concern and astonishment at rumors of party members participating in galamsey, warning them to cease such activities immediately.
Paragraph 4: Rejecting Complicity and Embracing Accountability
Quashie categorically denied allegations of NDC involvement in galamsey, emphasizing the party’s campaign promise to curtail illegal mining and implement sustainable mining practices. He reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to this pledge and its determination to prevent the continuation of galamsey. He advocated for stringent measures within the NDC, including expulsion, for any party member found to be involved in illegal mining. This, he believed, would demonstrate the party’s seriousness and commitment to addressing the issue. He stressed that tolerance for galamsey within the NDC would undermine the party’s credibility and betray the trust placed in it by the Ghanaian people.
Paragraph 5: A Multi-Pronged Approach to Combatting Galamsey
Quashie expressed confidence in the government’s multi-pronged strategy to combat galamsey. He highlighted the President’s directives to key stakeholders, including sector ministers and Regional Coordinating Councils, as evidence of a comprehensive approach. This coordinated effort, he argued, would yield positive results in the fight against illegal mining. He suggested that the involvement of multiple actors, including local communities, would strengthen the overall effectiveness of the government’s anti-galamsey initiatives. This collaboration, he believed, would ensure a more sustainable and impactful solution to the problem.
Paragraph 6: The Path Forward: Collaboration and Commitment
Quashie’s statements underscore the NDC government’s renewed determination to tackle the galamsey menace in Ghana. He emphasized the need for a non-partisan approach, where political affiliations are disregarded in the pursuit of environmental protection. The focus, he reiterated, should be on the long-term well-being of the nation and the preservation of its natural resources for future generations. The message is clear: galamsey has no place in Ghana’s future, and the current administration is committed to eradicating this destructive practice through robust enforcement, inter-agency collaboration, and a commitment to holding all perpetrators accountable, regardless of their political connections. This comprehensive approach, driven by a strong presidential mandate, offers hope for a future where Ghana’s environment is protected and its resources are sustainably managed.
