Government Communications Minister, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has stated that the former Akufo-Addo administration rightly earned the intense public criticism it faced during its tenure for its failure to deal decisively with galamsey.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Monday, September 15, he said the previous government’s own actions created an environment of mistrust and justified the backlash.

“The previous government came under fierce criticism and I didn’t mince words, and they deserved every condemnation they received,” Mr Kwakye Ofosu stated.

He explained that at certain points it became clear that there was “governmental complicity” in some of the very problems the administration was expected to resolve, a situation he described as deeply disappointing.

According to him, Ghanaians had every right to demand accountability, stressing that leaders must always ensure that their actions inspire confidence rather than suspicion.

Gov’t recognises genuine concerns on galamsey

Mr Kwakye Ofosu acknowledged the widespread concerns raised by citizens and stakeholders over the destructive impact of illegal mining under the NDC current administration.

He assured the public that the government remains committed to addressing the menace.

According to him, the administration does not dismiss the voices of ordinary Ghanaians who are directly affected by the devastation of water bodies, farmlands, and ecosystems.

“Government fully appreciates the genuine concerns people have expressed on galamsey, and these are not matters we take lightly,” he said.

Mr Kwakye Ofosu stressed that while the government has rolled out several interventions, tackling galamsey requires collective responsibility.

“We cannot pretend it is an easy fight, but what we can assure Ghanaians is that the government has not lost sight of its duty to protect lives, livelihoods and the environment,” he noted.

He called on the public to support ongoing interventions and resist political interference in efforts to clamp down on the illegal activity.

“We must all rally behind the measures being implemented. The survival of our water bodies and farmlands cannot be compromised,” the Communications Minister added.