Ranking Member of Parliament’s Lands and Natural Resources Committee, Alhassan Suhuyini, has assured that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) will take comprehensive action to address illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey, if the party wins the December 7 general elections.
Suhuyini commended civil society organizations (CSOs) and labor unions for their ongoing efforts in the fight against galamsey. He pledged that under a John Dramani Mahama-led government, the NDC would “engage constructively with CSOs and labor unions to implement comprehensive policies, as outlined in our manifesto, that address both the economic drivers of illegal mining and the pressing need for environmental protection.”
In his statement, the Tamale North lawmaker criticized the current New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration, describing its response to galamsey as “clueless” and “pretentious.” He also called on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and his government to address the nation on the state of the environment and outline concrete actions to combat illegal mining.
Suhuyini highlighted the environmental and public health risks posed by the ongoing destruction of water bodies and forest reserves, urging the government to enforce laws more rigorously and hold accountable those implicated in illegal mining activities.
He assured Ghanaians that the NDC would work collaboratively with stakeholders to implement sustainable solutions that protect the country’s natural resources and livelihoods.
The full statement is as follows:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
In response to the ongoing illegal mining (galamsey) crisis in Ghana, we recognize the relentless efforts of civil society organizations and labor unions, who have been leading advocacy, education, and community mobilization initiatives. Their dedication to safeguarding our natural resources and promoting sustainable practices underscores the urgent need for a united approach to environmental conservation and raises public awareness about the devastating consequences of these illegal activities.
However, we are deeply concerned by the government’s inept and sometimes insincere response to this urgent issue. The continued pollution of our water bodies and the irreversible destruction of forest reserves threaten both our environment and public health. Despite several promises and costly initiatives launched by the government, the galamsey problem persists, leaving communities to bear the brunt of these illegal activities.
The harmful effects of galamsey are extensive, damaging the environment and the livelihoods of countless individuals who rely on clean water and healthy ecosystems. We urge President Nana Akufo-Addo and his administration to address the nation on the state of our environment, detailing the immediate actions needed to combat these illegal activities. This should include stricter enforcement of existing laws, thorough investigations into allegations involving government officials and party leaders, and holding accountable those already implicated in these harmful practices.
Furthermore, we assure all concerned Ghanaians of the NDC’s commitment, under the leadership of President John Dramani Mahama, to work constructively with CSOs and labor unions. Our future government will implement the comprehensive policies outlined in our manifesto, addressing both the economic factors behind illegal mining and the urgent need for environmental protection. Now, more than ever, it is crucial that all stakeholders collaborate to find sustainable solutions that preserve our natural resources for future generations.
We commend the efforts of those fighting this important battle and reaffirm our solidarity with the communities affected by galamsey. Together, we can build a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for Ghana.