The Deputy Youth Organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Osman Ayariga, has accused President Akufo-Addo of lacking genuine commitment in the fight against illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.

Mr Ayariga claims that both the President and his party, the New Patriotic Party (NPP), have directly benefited from these illegal activities, raising questions about their dedication to addressing the issue.

In an interview with Channel One TV on Saturday, October 5, Ayariga criticized the government’s approach to combating galamsey, suggesting that the lack of progress is due to vested interests within the ruling party.

He argued that despite promises to crack down on illegal mining, the President has not taken significant action to curb its destructive effects.

Mr Ayariga urged Ghanaians not to give up in their fight for a ban on galamsey, calling on citizens to continue demanding stronger enforcement of laws and policies aimed at eradicating the practice.

He emphasised that protecting the environment and future generations must remain a top priority, regardless of political affiliations.

“I do not see how Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is committed to this fight against galamsey because they have benefitted from this galamsey. Nana Addo himself has benefitted from galamsey through his presidency; his own party bigwigs are engaged in galamsey,” Ayariga stated.