Efforts have been made by govt to tackle galamsey – Kofi Tontoh

A member of the communications team of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Kofi Tontoh, has said that the government is confronted with a situation where some politicians go into the hinterlands to engage in politics with the fight against illegal small-scale mining (Galamsey).

At one point, he said, these politicians, belonging to the largest opposition party, want the galamsey issue to be addressed by the government but at another point, these same political actors inform the galamseyers that the government is frustrating their work.

This situation makes the fight against galamsey difficult, he said.

Speaking on the Big Issue on TV3 Friday, October 4 in relation to the plea of President Akufo-Addo to labour unions for more time to address the issue, he said “some efforts have been made to address glamasey, including setting up community mining, alternative livelihood. ”

Asked why the problem has not been solved despite these efforts, he said “Because the fight against galamsey is not an easy fight, the president has not given up.”

There is also a political undertone, he stressed.

He added , “Whoever is found destroying our water bodies the law must act, the law must deal with whoever irrespective of their political leanings. But after arresting people there ought to be a framework, that framework is that all parties must come together to say they all commit to this [Fight against galamsey].”

President had called on organised labour to reconsider its planned nationwide strike set for October 10, highlighting his commitment to addressing concerns related to illegal mining, which is severely damaging the environment.

This appeal was made during a closed-door meeting with union leaders on October 3, where illegal mining was a key focus of discussion. Sources indicate that the President requested a postponement of the strike to allow more time to address the unions’ demands.

Analysts caution that a nationwide strike could have far-reaching effects, potentially disrupting multiple sectors of the economy. This looming threat highlights the need for prompt action.

In response to the escalating tensions, President Akufo-Addo has pledged to convene another meeting with Organised Labour next week to further discuss their concerns and seek potential solutions.

A source noted that the President’s willingness to engage in dialogue underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for collaboration between the government and labour groups.

 

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