A concerned citizen, Kwaku Antwi-Boasiako, says government has failed in the fight against illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
Government has been fighting illegal mining for many years, but the efforts and investments have all proved futile.
In 2017, the Akufo-Addo government launched a joint Police and Military taskforce named 'Operation Vanguard' to rid the country of illegal miners.
It was during the launch that the President made his famous quote, “I am prepared to put my presidency on the line on this matter.”
Despite the massive public support, the impact of the operation was minuscule.
Thus, speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Mr Antwi- Boasiako observed that despite President Akufo-Addo’s zealousness to halt the canker, galamsey has rather blossomed under his governance.
“We have a government that cannot provide governance as we understand it. The President said he was putting his presidency on the line to fight galamsey.
“How many years has it been since 2017? What is the situation on the ground? From what we’ve heard, the situation is worse. Our water bodies have become as you described, dead,” he said.
He, therefore, suggested that a more radical measure must be implemented to eradicate the menace.
On the same show, a fellow at CDD-Ghana, Kwame Sarpong noted that government could exploit other constitutional methods to clamp down the canker.
He questioned the government's commitment to eradicate the menace.
“How can I sit here in the UK [United Kingdom] and use google maps to accurately pinpoint the contamination of our water bodies but hear a minister say that he is not aware that mining is going on in a forest reserve because a Commission under his Ministry says they haven’t issued a license.
“Last I checked, most of our ministers use smartphones. Couldn’t he have done what we all do to pinpoint what is going on and check what we all saw? This doesn’t require National Security. This requires the persons personal will to act,” he stated.
Latest Stories
-
I’m doing well – Amerado assures fans after stage mishap
15 mins -
EC asks police to start criminal investigation into Ejisu by-election ‘white envelope’ bribery allegation
1 hour -
LPG Marketers Association kicks against NPA’s $80 per metric ton levy on LPG
2 hours -
We need a comprehensive review of Ghana’s financial regulations – Dr Alhassan Andani
2 hours -
Court dismisses injunction against NBA for approving registration of 14 new GM crops
2 hours -
Penalty for companies not filing returns increased to GH¢1k from May 1
2 hours -
Ejisu By-Election: Results so far
2 hours -
Ejisu By-Election: And the winner is…
3 hours -
Dumsor: Businesses could collapse if situation is not resolved – Ghali
3 hours -
Ejisu by-election: NPP will do everything possible to win – Kingsley Nyarko
3 hours -
‘White envelope’ incident was unfortunate – Political Science lecturer
3 hours -
NPP will always win Ejisu elections – Paul Yandoh
3 hours -
Manhyia Palace Museum comes alive in May by showcasing restored Asante treasures
4 hours -
NPP win in Ejisu by-election will signal Bawumia’s triumphant victory in 2024 polls – Richard Ahiagbah
4 hours -
Presidents must respect Chiefs, says historian
4 hours