Inusah Fuseini, the former Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, has publicly rebuked President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for his recent remarks concerning illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey.” During a public engagement with local leaders in the North-East Region on October 15, 2023, the president accused John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), of issuing inconsistent and contradictory statements regarding the government’s efforts to combat galamsey. Inusah Fuseini responded by rejecting the president’s claims and standing up for Mahama’s track record in the mining industry. He emphasized that the NDC possesses a clearly articulated, sustainable vision for managing small-scale mining while also combating illegal activities in the sector.
Focusing on the political implications, Fuseini accused President Akufo-Addo of exploiting the issue of galamsey for political gain, asserting that such actions divert focus from the government’s failure to effectively address the rampant problem of illegal mining. He reiterated that the approach adopted by the NDC prioritizes sustainability and fairness in the mining sector, opposing the current administration’s inability to cap the rise of galamsey activities. Fuseini firmly stated that the NDC’s position on illegal mining has always been clear and robust, countering the president’s claims that Mahama has not definitively spoken on the matter.
Moreover, Fuseini’s criticism of President Akufo-Addo extended to what he described as a dereliction of duty in addressing the illegal mining crisis facing the country. He highlighted that the president’s remarks seemed more like attempts to shift blame rather than confront the scenario directly. Asserting that it is the president’s constitutional responsibility to uphold the country’s laws, including those related to mining, Fuseini pointed out that the president, by suggesting that a pact between political parties is necessary, implies an abdication of his responsibilities.
In his remarks, Fuseini reminded the president about the oath he took upon assuming office, promising to uphold the laws of Ghana. He argued that the president’s plea for collaboration among political entities on issues pertaining to illegal mining contradicts the concept of executive authority vested in him by the constitution under Article 58. The former minister emphasized that it is inappropriate for the president to deflect accountability onto the political opposition when it is his duty to enforce and adhere to the legal framework governing the sector.
Fuseini described the current plight caused by illegal mining as an existential threat, affecting the livelihoods of many and damaging the environment. He expressed concern that the government’s failure to confront the issue practically reflects an attempt to politicize a problem that endangers the lives and property of ordinary citizens. The ongoing galamsey activities have not only devastated farmland and ecosystems but have also led to social conflict, undermining community stability and governance.
In conclusion, the exchange between Inusah Fuseini and President Akufo-Addo indicates a deepening rift in political discourse regarding the management of Ghana’s natural resources. Fuseini’s rebuttal serves as a call to action for the government and political parties alike to prioritize effective policy responses over political maneuvering. He asserted that addressing illegal mining demands a unified and responsible approach, rather than opportunistic blame-shifting. The debate continues to highlight the urgent need for accountability and commitment from leadership in tackling the pressing challenges of illegal mining to safeguard both the environment and the welfare of the Ghanaian people.
