The President of the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) at the University of Ghana, Prof Ransford Gyampo, has sharply criticised suggestions that UTAG's stance on illegal mining, or "galamsey," is politically motivated.

Speaking on the Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, Prof Gyampo dismissed the notion that the association's recent vocal opposition to galamsey is intended to undermine the current government or bolster opposition forces ahead of the upcoming elections.

He described such claims as "nonsense," emphasising that UTAG’s efforts to combat galamsey stem from genuine concern over its devastating effects on Ghana's environment and the loss of lives.

“People are dying now,” he said, stressing that the urgency of the issue transcends political affiliations.

He acknowledged criticisms that UTAG had not been as vocal in the past but reiterated that the association's fight is against an existential threat, not a political regime.

He distinguished UTAG's resolve and other civil society organizations (CSOs) that had been selectively vocal depending on which party was in power, noting that UTAG’s determination to protect the environment will remain consistent, regardless of which political party governs the country.

“Our hatred and resolve to fight and ensure that the integrity of our environment is restored will not stop until the battle against galamsey is won,” he vowed.

Prof Gyampo’s comments come at a time when the illegal mining menace continues to dominate the national discourse, with various stakeholders pushing for tougher actions to address the environmental degradation and public health risks posed by galamsey operations.