The Effiduase-Asokore MP, Dr Ayew Afriye, has stated that the remarks he made regarding the government's stance on small-scale mining were misrepresented following a public uproar.

His comments, made during a campaign event on September 27, suggested that the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government would not ban small-scale mining, which led to widespread criticism.

The controversy stemmed from a video clip that went viral, sparking condemnation from advocacy groups that have long called for stronger government action against illegal small-scale mining, also known as "galamsey."

These groups voiced concerns over the environmental damage caused by galamsey, urging the government to enforce stricter regulations.

Dr. Afriye, in an interview with Citi FM on September 30, explained that his comments were taken out of context and misrepresented.

He emphasised that the government’s objective is not to ban small-scale mining but to differentiate between responsible and illegal mining practices.

The MP highlighted that while small-scale mining plays an important role in the economy, it is essential to regulate harmful practices that degrade the environment and pollute water bodies.

He stressed that responsible small-scale mining should be encouraged, while illegal operations should face strict penalties.

Dr. Afriye reiterated the government's commitment to promoting sustainable mining practices, ensuring that mining communities benefit economically while protecting the environment for future generations.

“So, what the TV3 people did was that when I said we will not stop today or tomorrow, they actually truncated and doctored it out and then made it look like all I said was we are not doing anything about galamsey, and we will not stop today or tomorrow. That is a misrepresentation, it actually put me out of context,” he stated.

“That is actually why many people will wonder if Ayew Afriye will stand on principle and as I am speaking with you I still stand on the basic principle that there are irresponsible small-scale mining and there are responsible small-scale mining. We cannot put a ban on small-scale mining, that is not fair."

“That is to say that in the southern belt, along the coast, in the river bodies and the Volta Lake people are doing irresponsible fishing. They use DDT and dynamite and we are aware but the state agency is after the illegal ones does that mean that we would ban all fishing in the south? he added.