Illegal mining persists in Ghana because some state officials are failing to act, a leading anti-galamsey campaigner has said.
The fight against illegal mining will continue to fall short unless state officials entrusted with enforcing the law actively play their part, according to Dr Ken Ashigbey, convener of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining. Speaking on Joy FM's Middaynews on July 15, Mr Ashigbey said the broader anti-galamsey campaign is being undermined by some government officials who have failed to support enforcement efforts.
While the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) has made several arrests, illegal mining activities remain visible in many parts of the country. Mr Ashigbey pointed to the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) and other state representatives, saying they must be held accountable for enforcing the law in their jurisdictions. He noted that when you travel on the Eastern Bypass, mining activities are still visible in plain public view, with vehicles parked there, yet the activities continue.
The issue is not a lack of will from the minister, but rather the support he receives from state officials, Mr Ashigbey said. He questioned the lack of progress in prosecuting those behind illegal mining, arguing that arrests alone will not solve the problem. Mr Ashigbey asked how many people who are fuelling this illegal mining have been arrested, and what has happened to the investigations into public officials alleged to have been involved. He also recalled that President John Mahama had acknowledged that some people within government were involved in illegal mining and urged authorities to ensure those implicated are investigated and prosecuted.
The anti-galamsey campaign requires a coordinated effort from all relevant state institutions if it is to achieve lasting results, Mr Ashigbey said. He emphasized that the problem will not be solved until all state officials actively play their part in enforcing the law. The lack of progress in this area has significant implications for the future of the country's environment and economy.
Source: JOY
More About This Person
Breaking: Major Political Development Shakes Accra
Dissolve GFA as Part of ‘Resetting Agenda’ – Wayoosi Begs President Mahama
South African President Praises Mahama’s Call For African Unity Amid Continental Challenges
EOCO never questioned Miracles Aboagye over alleged GH¢55m irregularities – Atta Akyea
Reggae Singer Fantan Mojah Dies at 49 After Health Battle
