The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. George Mireku-Duker, has vehemently denied allegations of his involvement in illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as ‘galamsey’.
The accusations have primarily come from members of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), who have long implicated Hon. Mireku-Duker in these illegal operations. Speaking with conviction during an interview, Hon. Mireku-Duker addressed the accusations head-on, emphasizing the lack of evidence supporting such claims and urging those making them to come forward with proof.
“Before my appointment, people, particularly elements in the NDC, tagged me as a ‘galamseyer’. To date, nobody has come out with evidence to prove otherwise. So far, no such evidence has been brought forward. This is all because of propaganda to suit their own imaginations.”
Hon. George Mireku-Duker, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
Firmly denying any involvement in illegal mining, Hon. Mireku-Duker stated, “I am not a miner and have never been a miner.” He highlighted his background in mining and his role in representing miners in the Tarkwa Nsuaem Constituency in the Western Region, suggesting that his knowledge and experience in the field are being misconstrued.
Hon. Mireku-Duker further addressed the broader narrative suggesting that New Patriotic Party (NPP) executives are extensively involved in galamsey. He called this a misconception, noting, “Some of these party executives have been in mining long before the NPP came into power, and people in the NDC know them as such at the Constituency level.”
The Deputy Minister took the opportunity to explain the scope of his role, which does not include the authority to arrest individuals involved in galamsey. He stressed that state agencies are responsible for enforcing laws and curbing illegal activities.
Drawing a parallel with South Africa, where illegal mining is known as ‘Zama Zama,’ Hon. Mireku-Duker pointed out that it is the security agencies, not the sector minister, who are held accountable for illegal activities.
Mr. Mireku-Duker called on Ghanaians to refrain from blaming innocent leaders for issues related to law enforcement in the country.
Political Implications
The allegations against Hon. Mireku-Duker and the ensuing controversy highlight the politically charged atmosphere surrounding the issue of galamsey in Ghana.
Illegal mining has been a significant challenge for successive governments, with devastating environmental and social impacts. The fight against galamsey is not just a legal issue but also a highly politicized one, with accusations and counter-accusations often taking center stage.
Hon. Mireku-Duker warned that politicizing the fight against galamsey would impede progress.
“If we continue to use brute methods in the fight against illegal mining, we will not achieve any meaningful results.”
Hon. George Mireku-Duker, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources
Hon. Mireku-Duker advocated for a more strategic approach, emphasizing the need for effective law enforcement and community engagement to combat the menace of illegal mining.
Mr. Mireku-Duker’s stance underscores the need for a depoliticized approach to tackling illegal mining. He urged all stakeholders, including political parties, to collaborate in addressing the issue constructively. The Deputy Minister’s call for evidence and transparency aims to shift the focus from political blame games to actionable solutions.
The government has implemented various measures, including military interventions and the establishment of task forces, to combat illegal mining. However, the success of these efforts depends on the collective will of all stakeholders to prioritize the nation’s interest over political gains.
The need for a unified, evidence-based approach is critical in overcoming the challenges posed by galamsey and ensuring sustainable development in the country’s mining sector. As the discourse continues, it is essential for all parties to work together, focusing on practical solutions rather than political rhetoric.
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