Government Communications Minister, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has pushed back against claims by critics that illegal mining, or galamsey, has worsened since President John Dramani Mahama assumed office.

The Abura Asebu-Kwamankese lawmaker insisted that such assertions must be supported by verifiable data rather than speculation.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Monday, September 15, Mr Kwakye Ofosu said that the government remains committed to tackling the menace, stressing that accusations without empirical proof only distort the national conversation.

“Those who say galamsey has worsened under President Mahama must prove it with empirical evidence. We cannot allow perceptions or political point-scoring to overshadow facts,” he emphasised.

He reiterated that the government has intensified efforts to address illegal mining through arrests, environmental interventions, and the planned creation of special courts to ensure swift prosecution of offenders.

Read Also: Over 1,000 illegal miners arrested; special courts in the offing to speed up prosecution – Kwakye Ofosu

Gov’t recognises genuine concerns on galamsey

Mr Kwakye Ofosu acknowledged the widespread concerns raised by citizens and stakeholders over the destructive impact of illegal mining under the NDC current administration.

He assured the public that the government remains committed to addressing the menace.

According to him, the administration does not dismiss the voices of ordinary Ghanaians who are directly affected by the devastation of water bodies, farmlands, and ecosystems.

“Government fully appreciates the genuine concerns people have expressed on galamsey, and these are not matters we take lightly,” he said.

Mr Kwakye Ofosu stressed that while the government has rolled out several interventions, tackling galamsey requires collective responsibility.

“We cannot pretend it is an easy fight, but what we can assure Ghanaians is that the government has not lost sight of its duty to protect lives, livelihoods and the environment,” he noted.

He called on the public to support ongoing interventions and resist political interference in efforts to clamp down on the illegal activity.

“We must all rally behind the measures being implemented. The survival of our water bodies and farmlands cannot be compromised,” the Communications Minister added.