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Former presidential staffer under the Akufo-Addo administration, Dennis Miracles Aboagye, has called on the Mahama administration to fulfill its campaign promises in addressing the illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) menace.
According to him, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), while in opposition, pledged bold measures including declaring a state of emergency, temporarily banning all forms of small-scale mining, and prohibiting mining activities in forest reserves.
“Just implement the above so we can do a proper appraisal,” Miracles Aboagye stated.
His remarks come in the wake of a strong government signal to intensify the fight against galamsey. On Thursday, August 14, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, disclosed that President John Dramani Mahama is preparing to launch what he described as an “unprecedented and uncompromising crackdown” on illegal mining activities.
Mr. Ablakwa revealed that the President’s resolve was reaffirmed during a cabinet meeting following the tragic helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region on Wednesday, August 6, which claimed the lives of eight people, including Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed.
He stressed that President Mahama views galamsey as an existential threat to the country’s environment and future.
“I can confirm to you that you are going to see a fight that has never been witnessed before in this country. President Mahama is going to lead a very ruthless and relentless fight against galamsey,” Mr. Ablakwa assured.