The Vice-Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO), has assured the Eminent Persons Group of the Christian Council of Ghana that his party remains resolute in its commitment to the fight against illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Dr. Prempeh reaffirmed the party’s dedication to ensuring that mining is conducted responsibly and sustainably, in a manner that benefits Ghana while preserving the environment.

During a meeting with the delegation at the Bawumia 2024 Campaign Office on Dr. Prempeh expressed concern over recent developments involving key members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

He cited a troubling incident during a campaign tour by the NDC’s Running Mate, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, in Prestea, where she reportedly encouraged illegal mining activities.

“It is alarming that she would promote galamsey, an activity that is not only illegal but destructive to our water bodies, farmlands, and ecosystems,” NAPO said.

Dr. Prempeh also criticised former President John Dramani Mahama accusing him of encouraging between 3,000 to 5,000 young people to enter the "Youth in Mining" initiative in 2015 without proper training or regulation.

NAPO described Mahama’s approach as irresponsible and reckless, warning that unregulated mining activities by inexperienced youth would only deepen the environmental crisis and exacerbate the country's illegal mining problems.

“While we are all in favour of creating job opportunities for our youth, encouraging them to enter mining without the necessary training or oversight is a recipe for disaster,” NAPO said.

“The NPP is focused on empowering the youth with the skills and resources needed to engage in responsible and sustainable livelihoods.”

NAPO further outlined the NPP’s strategy for addressing illegal mining, highlighting Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s comprehensive plan to ensure mining is done responsibly.

According to Dr. Prempeh, Bawumia’s vision includes strict regulation, the introduction of environmentally-friendly mining approaches with support from the geological survey department, among others.

“Under Dr. Bawumia’s leadership, we will ensure that all mining activities are done within a legal framework that protects our environment while creating sustainable jobs. We are committed to partnering with key stakeholders, including our chiefs, to restore order in the mining sector,” NAPO added.

The delegation from the Christian Council, led by Rev. Enoch Thompson, commended the NPP for its strong stance on the galamsey issue and its plans to foster responsible mining. Rev. Thompson reiterated the Council’s support for the government’s efforts in eradicating illegal mining and ensuring the well-being of future generations.

The meeting forms part of a series of engagements the Christian Council is holding with political parties ahead of the 2024 general elections to discuss issues of national concern, with the fight against illegal mining high on the agenda.

This latest assurance from the NPP comes at a time when the country continues to grapple with the devastating effects of illegal mining on its natural resources, and the call for sustainable solutions remains louder than ever.