The Media Coalition Against Galamsey says the 20-year prison sentence handed to New Patriotic Party (NPP) Ashanti Regional Chairman Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, must be followed by the prosecution of all persons implicated in illegal mining activities.

The coalition said the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, should not be limited to the Akonta Mining case but must extend to politically exposed persons, financiers and other individuals who facilitate the illegal trade, regardless of their political affiliation.

According to the coalition, the enforcement of mining laws must be fair, consistent and devoid of political considerations to ensure that all persons found to be involved in activities that have contributed to environmental degradation are held accountable.

Speaking on JoyFM’s News Night, Convenor of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, Ken Ashigbey, said the conviction of Chairman Wontumi should serve as a catalyst for a wider effort to address the galamsey menace.

“We cannot stop at Akonta Mining. We need to go after all those who have been involved in this fight, whether they are politically exposed persons, whether they are financiers, whether they are people who have supported these activities. We must ensure that everybody who has had a hand in the destruction of our environment is brought to book,” he said.

Mr Ashigbey stressed that the fight against illegal mining must be driven by the need to protect Ghana’s natural resources and not be influenced by political considerations.

He added that accountability must apply to all persons involved, irrespective of their party affiliation or social standing.