The Minority in Parliament has criticised the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) for what it describes as gross hypocrisy and failure to address the escalating illegal mining crisis, commonly known as ‘galamsey’.

Labeling the situation a “full-blown national emergency,” the Minority condemned what it called “fancy stunts” by the government, calling instead for decisive measures to protect Ghana’s environment.

In a press release dated Wednesday, 23 July, and signed by Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, Ranking Member on the Lands and Natural Resources Committee, the Minority accused the NDC of reneging on its promises, overseeing a worsening galamsey epidemic barely six months into its tenure.

“The government was allocated GHS 50 million in the 2025 budget to combat illegal mining — five times more than the GHS 10 million under the previous NPP administration in 2024 — yet the public has only witnessed token gestures without substantive action,” the statement asserted.

Highlighting the persistence of illegal mining in President John Dramani Mahama’s hometown of Bole Bamboi, particularly in Tumtumba where the Yonkamba stream, a key tributary of the Black Volta, has been severely damaged, the Minority questioned: “If the President cannot safeguard natural resources in his own backyard, what hope is there for the rest of the country?”

The statement also accused the NDC of exploiting galamsey sites for political and personal gain, citing mounting public dissatisfaction and critical remarks from influential bodies such as the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG).

Both organisations have condemned the government’s response as weak and complicit, with UTAG threatening strike action unless demands—including the declaration of a state of emergency and prosecution of corrupt officials—are met.

The Minority further expressed concern over the apparent disregard for journalists exposing illegal mining activities, mentioning Erastus Asare Donkor as an example of a whistleblower being ignored despite presenting credible evidence of environmental harm and political interference.

Of particular concern was the rising incidence of health problems in galamsey-affected communities. The statement warned: “Neurologists are reporting increased gallbladder-related illnesses linked to polluted water. This is no longer solely an environmental issue but a public health crisis.”

The Minority dismissed the government’s much-publicised anti-galamsey efforts, including the “Goldbod” initiative, branding it a “monumental scam” and alleging that gold procured under the programme is sourced directly from illegal mining operations.

“They wear Wellington boots for cameras and pose with shovels like actors on a movie set,” the statement said, accusing the government of prioritising photo opportunities over genuine intervention.

The Minority also demanded accountability, stating: “Ghanaians deserve clean water, preserved forests, good health, and genuine leadership. If the NDC cannot provide these, they have no mandate to govern.”

Meanwhile, the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, addressing the Government Accountability Series in Accra on Wednesday, 23 July, assured the public that the government is tackling the galamsey menace with utmost urgency to ensure its resolution.