The New Patriotic Party (NPP) branch in Germany, NPP Germany, has expressed unwavering support for the recent initiatives taken by Ghana’s Minerals Commission to clarify the issuance of mining licenses during both the John Dramani Mahama and Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo administrations. This endorsement is a direct response to allegations made by Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, which NPP Germany deems a deliberate attempt to mislead the public. In a press release, the party commended the Minerals Commission for countering what they labeled as “misinformation.” The document outlined that 1,402 small-scale mining licenses were issued under Mahama during his tenure from 2012 to 2016, compared to 1,014 licenses under the Akufo-Addo administration from 2017 to 2024. This contrast has been presented as indicative of the current government’s commitment to sustainable mining practices.
NPP Germany highlighted the government’s emphasis on combating illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, through various strategies. Initiatives such as Operation Vanguard and military task forces focus on addressing the challenges posed by illegal mining activities. The party acknowledged that while significant hurdles remain, collaborative efforts across sectors are necessary to mitigate the complexities associated with illegal mining. They urged the Ghanaian populace to disregard what they termed Ablakwa’s “baseless allegations,” encouraging citizens to remain focused on the factual representations provided by the Minerals Commission.
The press release also aimed to correct the narrative surrounding the government’s approach to mining. NPP Germany underscored the need for clarity and transparency in discussing issues that impact the nation’s natural resources. The party articulated its commitment to responsible governance while recognizing the multifaceted approach needed to combat illegal mining. This includes educational initiatives, community engagement, and strict enforcement of existing laws. The NPP asserted that viewing the government’s efforts solely through the lens of current challenges ignores the progress made in addressing illegal mining over time.
The publication dedicated attention to the findings issued by the Minerals Commission, which serves as a regulatory body in Ghana’s mining sector. The significant difference in the number of licenses issued under the two administrations raises questions about the sustainability of mining policies. NPP Germany interpreted the lower number of licenses under Akufo-Addo as a strategic move to prevent over-exploitation of resources and ensure that mining conducted aligns with the broader national interest and environmental sustainability.
Addressing the accusations put forth by Ablakwa, NPP Germany contended that these claims were unfounded and an attempt to misrepresent the efforts and successes of the current administration. They highlighted the diligence of the Minerals Commission in maintaining a regulated mining sector under President Akufo-Addo’s leadership. The release emphasized that the opposition’s tactics of exaggeration and misinformation tarnish the image of hardworking Ghanaians who have benefitted from implemented transformative policies.
Lastly, NPP Germany reiterated its call for accountability and transparency from all stakeholders involved in the mining sector. The party withstood the assertion that the fight against illegal mining is a shared responsibility among political leaders, communities, and miners. They concluded by reaffirming their commitment to the NPP’s vision of responsible resource management and development in Ghana, imploring citizens to remain informed and centered on facts amidst the political discourse. They encouraged Ghanaians to offer their support in the upcoming elections to ensure the continuation of policies that foster sustainable development for future generations.
