Professor Ransford Gyampo, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Shippers Authority, has reiterated his call for a state of emergency to combat illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, in Ghana. This renewed call comes amidst criticism from the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), who accuse him of hypocrisy and softening his stance after receiving a government appointment under the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC). Prof. Gyampo maintains his position, emphasizing the urgent need for drastic measures to address the environmental devastation caused by galamsey, likening the situation to mopping a floor while the tap is still running. He asserts that he continues to advocate for this approach within the government, engaging with his superiors and pushing for stronger action.
Prof. Gyampo’s response also includes a sharp rebuke of the NPP, accusing the party of attempting to hijack the galamsey fight despite their alleged complicity in exacerbating the problem during their previous eight years in power. He points to the significant increase in mining licenses granted under the NPP administration, which he claims fueled the surge in illegal mining activities, forcing the current government to review and revoke many of these licenses. He questions the NPP’s credibility in the current debate, suggesting their silence would be more appropriate given their past actions. He champions other groups, such as the Coalition Against Galamsey, UTAG, and the OneGhana Movement, as the legitimate voices in the fight against illegal mining.
Highlighting the NDC government’s efforts, Prof. Gyampo cites the deployment of police to reclaim forest reserves and the repeal of legislation passed by the NPP that allowed mining in protected areas. He clarifies President Mahama’s position on a state of emergency, emphasizing that it is considered a last resort if other interventions prove ineffective, contrary to the NPP’s claims. He challenges the NPP’s interpretation of the NDC’s 2024 manifesto, urging them to review the document for accurate information regarding the government’s proposed approach to galamsey.
Further defending his stance, Prof. Gyampo underscores his continued advocacy for a state of emergency, believing it is essential to address the root causes of the problem. He maintains that his role within the government allows him to influence policy from within, although acknowledging that this requires persistent effort. He reiterates his commitment to this fight, emphasizing his dedication to Ghana’s well-being. He dismisses the NPP’s criticisms as politically motivated and self-serving, highlighting their alleged past actions that contributed to the galamsey crisis.
Prof. Gyampo’s critique of the NPP extends to their alleged past disregard for concerns raised by labor unions and civil society groups regarding galamsey. He accuses them of prioritizing political expediency over environmental protection, suggesting they downplayed the health implications of illegal mining and even allegedly bribed union leaders to silence their protests. He also questions their treatment of Professor Frimpong Boateng, who blew the whistle on alleged galamsey involvement within their ranks, and their response to the Akonta mining incident.
In conclusion, Prof. Gyampo’s statement underscores his unwavering commitment to combating illegal mining in Ghana. He defends his call for a state of emergency, reiterating the urgency of the situation and the need for drastic action to address the root causes of the problem. He criticizes the NPP’s perceived hypocrisy, highlighting their alleged past actions that contributed to the galamsey crisis and questioning their current attempts to lead the fight. He emphasizes his continued advocacy within the government and his dedication to working towards a solution, while also calling for genuine and credible leadership in the fight against galamsey, free from partisan politics.
