The Institute of Progressive Governance (IPG) has stressed the need for a collective approach to effectively combat illegal mining, commonly known as ‘galamsey’.
In a statement to the media, the think tank argued that the fight against galamsey cannot be left to the ruling party alone, as doing so would yield limited success. IPG pointed out that opposition parties should also be actively involved, as their absence has contributed to the failures seen in curbing the menace.
IPG criticized the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and its flagbearer, John Dramani Mahama, for frustrating efforts to tackle illegal mining.
The think tank referenced Mahama’s statements during the 2020 elections, where he reportedly assured miners that those arrested and jailed for galamsey would be granted amnesty. IPG condemned this as an “irresponsible” remark that has emboldened illegal miners and undermined the fight against environmental destruction.
The group further lambasted key NDC figures for allegedly offering resolute support to illegal miners during their 2020 campaign. They expressed shock over videos showing influential party members assuring miners of continued access to water bodies and forest areas, which have been devastated by illegal mining activities.
IPG also highlighted the political consequences of the galamsey battle, noting that the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) lost many seats in constituencies where illegal mining is prevalent. They attributed this loss to the NDC’s promises of support for miners, which swayed votes in those regions.
According to IPG, this has made the ruling party hesitant to take decisive action against galamsey for fear of further electoral losses.
To effectively address the issue, IPG called for a nationalistic approach, involving all political parties. They proposed that the leadership of both the ruling and opposition parties sign a pact, overseen by civil society and religious groups, to ensure a unified commitment to eradicating illegal mining.
