The Minority in Ghana’s Parliament has urgently called on President Nana Akufo-Addo to address the nation regarding the alarming state of the country’s environment.
This demand comes in the wake of escalating concerns about the rapid degradation of Ghana’s natural resources, including its forests, water bodies, and land. The Minority believes that this issue requires immediate intervention from the highest level of government.
Speaking at a press conference, Hon. Alhassan Suhuyini, the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Lands and Natural Resources Committee, expressed deep concern over the government’s perceived lack of action in addressing critical environmental issues.
Hon. Suhuyini specifically highlighted the ongoing challenges posed by illegal mining, deforestation, and pollution, which he argued are causing irreparable damage to the country’s ecosystems.
“We are witnessing a systematic destruction of our natural resources, which is not only detrimental to our environment but also to the health and livelihoods of Ghanaians,” Hon. Suhuyini stated.
Hon. Suhuyini emphasized that the government’s failure to effectively enforce environmental regulations has exacerbated these problems, leading to the continued degradation of vital ecosystems crucial for Ghana’s sustainable development.
The environmental issues facing Ghana are multifaceted and complex. Illegal mining has led to the pollution of water bodies, destruction of farmlands, and displacement of communities.
Deforestation, driven by both illegal logging and agricultural expansion, has resulted in the loss of biodiversity and disruption of ecosystems. Meanwhile, urbanization and industrial activities continue to contribute to air and water pollution, further degrading the environment.
These issues are not only environmental concerns but also have significant social and economic implications. The degradation of natural resources threatens food security, increases the vulnerability of communities to climate change, and undermines the country’s potential for sustainable development.
As Hon. Suhuyini pointed out, the ongoing environmental degradation poses a major threat to the health and livelihoods of Ghanaians.
Criticism of the Government’s Inaction
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo
The Minority’s concerns are not new, but they have become more pronounced in recent months as the effects of environmental degradation become increasingly visible. Hon. Suhuyini criticized the Akufo-Addo administration for what he described as a “lack of urgency” in dealing with environmental issues.
Hon. Suhuyini accused the government of neglecting its duty to protect the environment, which has resulted in the unchecked expansion of illegal mining activities, commonly known as “galamsey,” and widespread deforestation.
“We wish to therefore call on our lame duck President who checked out long ago and the clueless Vice President, who is only focused on merely winning an election to show it’s possible without a clue as to what to do with it.
“At least dismiss the ministers responsible for Science and Environment and MLNR to signal their disappointment and the indignation of the people.”
Hon. Alhassan Suhuyini, Ranking Member on Parliament’s Lands and Natural Resources Committee
This sharp criticism reflected the growing frustration among the Minority and environmental advocates who believe that the government’s inaction is contributing to a looming environmental disaster.
The failure to address illegal mining, in particular, has been a major point of contention, with many accusing the government of being complicit in the destruction of Ghana’s natural resources.
In light of these pressing concerns, the Minority in Parliament is calling on President Akufo-Addo to outline concrete measures to address the environmental challenges facing the country.
Hon Suhuyini urged the President to implement strategies for the rehabilitation of degraded areas and to enforce stricter environmental laws to prevent further destruction of natural resources.
“Anything short of that will mean our suspicions that galamsey is a regime-sponsored and supported rape of the state is true. We also demand a statement from the President on the state of our environment immediately. It’s critical to our survival as a nation.”
Hon. Alhassan Suhuyini, Ranking Member on Parliament’s Lands and Natural Resources Committee
This demand for a presidential address underscores the urgency of the situation. The Minority is pushing for a clear and decisive response from the President, one that will demonstrate the government’s commitment to protecting the environment and securing the future of Ghana.
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