Galamsey fight: Akufo-Addo has not been sincere – Ansah-Asare

A former director of the Ghana School of Law, Kwaku Ansah-Asare, has accused President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of insincerity in the fight against illegal small-scale mining (Galamsey).

He said the president should have by now vacated his seat to allow his Vice, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia to continue because he failed to fight galamsey, contrary to his earlier assurance of putting his presidency on the line to deal with the menace.

“On assumption of office, he said he would put his presidency on the line and said should he fail the galamsey fight, he would pay for it. We have asked him to apologise but he hasn’t apologised.”

“He has only eight weeks [to end his tenure] and by now, he should have allowed his vice, Dr. Bawumia to assume the reigns of government. He shouldn’t be asking organised labour to do anything.”

“He has not been sincere. You will not keep any promise that you give within the next eight weeks. So as far as I am concerned, organised labour should proceed with the timetable,” Mr Ansah-Asare said on the News 360 on TV3 Thursday, October 3.

His comments come at a time when 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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