The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG) has vehemently criticized President John Dramani Mahama’s recent stance on illegal mining, otherwise known as “galamsey,” accusing him of trivializing a national crisis. The President, during a media encounter, rejected calls for a state of emergency to combat galamsey, asserting that existing laws provide sufficient authority to address the issue. He argued that declaring a state of emergency should be a last resort, as current legislation empowers authorities to arrest perpetrators and confiscate illegal mining equipment. However, the GCAG contends that the President’s remarks demonstrate a lack of urgency and fail to grasp the gravity of the environmental devastation caused by galamsey activities. They view his position as emboldening illegal miners and jeopardizing the nation’s environmental future.
The coalition’s critique centers on the President’s perceived downplaying of the widespread damage inflicted by galamsey. They highlight the pollution of over 60% of Ghana’s water bodies, the displacement of countless farmers, and the destruction of vital forest reserves as stark evidence of the crisis. The GCAG argues that the President’s reliance on existing laws, which they believe have proven ineffective in curbing the illegal activity, signals a lack of commitment to tackling the problem head-on. They contend that a state of emergency is necessary to demonstrate the government’s resolve and mobilize the resources needed to effectively combat galamsey. The President’s approach, they warn, risks further emboldening illegal miners and exacerbating the environmental damage.
The GCAG also challenges the government’s claim that law enforcement struggles to differentiate between legal and illegal mining operations. They argue that the police, despite imperfections, had previously managed to bring the situation under control, and question the withdrawal of police personnel from the fight against galamsey. The coalition challenges the Presidency to identify a single licensed small-scale mining operation adhering to responsible practices, suggesting that the distinction between legal and illegal mining is clear. They express concern that the withdrawal of police forces sends the wrong message and undermines efforts to curtail illegal mining activities.
While acknowledging the government’s launch of the National Alternative Employment and Livelihood Programme for Small-Scale Miners (NAELP, also known as NAIMOS), the GCAG questions its efficacy and resource allocation. They argue that the President’s insistence on securing alternative livelihoods for illegal miners before implementing a full crackdown effectively legitimizes and encourages illegal activities. The coalition contends that prioritizing alternative livelihoods ahead of enforcement sends a mixed message, implying that illegal mining is acceptable until alternative employment is available. This approach, they argue, undermines the urgency of combating galamsey and risks further environmental degradation.
The GCAG further points out the irony of President Mahama’s current stance, recalling his previous advocacy for a state of emergency to address galamsey while in opposition. They argue that the situation has worsened significantly since then, highlighting a recent report by the Ghana Water Company Limited that led to the closure of the Kwanyarko Water Treatment Plant due to extremely high turbidity levels. This incident, they argue, underscores the severity of the galamsey crisis and the urgent need for decisive action. The coalition asserts that the President’s shift in position demonstrates a lack of consistency and a failure to recognize the escalating environmental threat posed by galamsey.
In conclusion, the GCAG expresses deep disappointment with President Mahama’s response to the galamsey crisis, accusing him of failing to provide the leadership required to address a national emergency. They view his rejection of a state of emergency and his emphasis on existing laws as inadequate and counterproductive. The coalition plans to hold a comprehensive media briefing to outline their next steps and further actions, signaling their intent to continue pressuring the government to take decisive action against illegal mining. They believe the President’s current approach risks irreversible environmental damage and jeopardizes the nation’s future.
