In a recent conversation, Dr. Wisdom Dogbey, a financial analyst, shared his views on three key issues affecting Ghana. Among the controversial topics, he expressed deep dissatisfaction over illegal small-scale mining (locally known as Galamsey), the government’s introduction of the Citizens App, and the arrest of Democracy Hub protesters.
While critical of certain policies and actions, his thoughts offered a balanced view, emphasizing the need for long-term solutions and political will to resolve challenges in the country.
One of the most pressing issues discussed by Dr. Dogbey was the fight against illegal mining.
This has long been a contentious topic in Ghana, as Galamsey contributes significantly to environmental degradation and provides livelihoods for many Ghanaians.
Addressing the political implications of banning illegal mining, Dr. Dogbey pointed out the potential electoral consequences for the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) in some constituencies where mining remains a critical source of income for the population.
” [He explained] that the 2017 ban had significant political ramifications in their constituencies. Galamsey was the main source of livelihood for the people.”
Dr. Wisdom Dogbey financial analyst
However, Dr. Dogbey emphasized that political consequences should not dictate the government’s approach to ending Galamsey, which poses severe health risks to citizens and damages the environment.
“Regardless of the consequences, we should aggressively pursue bans and thorough eradication of illegal mining even if it means that the NPP is losing an election.”
“Is it not better for a political party to lose an election than exposing many of our citizens to health risks that Galamsey threatens?”
Dr. Wisdom Dogbey financial analyst
Dr. Dogbey called for alternative solutions for those affected by the mining ban, urging policymakers to focus on sustainable options that benefit both the environment and the economy.
“Let’s find alternative livelihoods for our brothers and sisters instead of allowing their work to put the lives of millions of Ghanaians at risk. This should not be a political matter.”
Dr. Wisdom Dogbey financial analyst
The Citizens App: Misplaced Priorities
Turning to the recently launched Citizens App, Dr. Dogbey expressed mixed feelings. While acknowledging the app’s potential to streamline data access across government agencies, he argued that it addresses secondary issues at a time when more urgent economic problems remain unsolved.
“I like the idea behind the citizens app, but it just seems to me that our leaders are focusing on the wrong challenges facing our nation.”
Dr. Wisdom Dogbey financial analyst
He further elaborated on the economic hardship Ghanaians are facing
“People need food to eat. People need jobs, Prices of goods and services are still too high for the average Ghanaian. [The] cost of doing business in Ghana is very excessive at this time because of the several taxes in place and the continuous depreciation of the cedi.”
Dr. Wisdom Dogbey financial analyst
According to Dr. Dogbey, the Citizens App is a forward-thinking initiative that could improve government efficiency. He emphasized; “Let’s solve these first, and then digitization will make more sense to the people.”
However, he conceded that the app could yield long-term benefits.
“There is no doubt in my mind that the citizens app will streamline services and possibly improve even our data accuracy for all government agencies and even possibly save cost in the long run. But we need to prioritize first.”
Dr. Wisdom Dogbey financial analyst
Democracy Hub and the Arrests of Protesters
Moreover, the arrest and detention of Democracy Hub protesters were another key issue raised by Dr. Dogbey. While he criticized the actions of some protesters, he condemned the government’s response, calling it excessive and detrimental to Ghana’s human rights record. He reiterated; “I do not condone violence or any other lawlessness. And I think some of the Democracy Hub protesters made mistakes.”
However, he argued that the government’s decision to keep the protesters in custody for two weeks was disproportionate.
“For our brothers and sisters who are protesting against Galamsey and other economic challenges in the nation, I think the government has simply decided to make a scapegoat out of them.”
Dr. Wisdom Dogbey financial analyst
He emphasized that the detention of these individuals, many of whom were only recently granted bail, does not align with Ghana’s reputation as a country that respects civil liberties and democratic engagement.
Dr. Dogbey warned that the government’s handling of the situation could harm the country’s international standing on human rights.
“It doesn’t bode well for Ghana in terms of combating human rights abuses and also creating a political climate [where citizens] can freely and lawfully engage in civil protest to register their concerns to the government and our leaders about the fast destruction and dangers of galamsey.
Dr. Wisdom Dogbey financial analyst
In his final comments on the issue, Dr. Dogbey urged the government to release all protesters immediately, arguing that continued detention does more harm than good.
“I’m not saying that what some of them did, including those who were caught on video, are breaking the law. I’m not saying they should be celebrated for that. But it makes sense to forgive them and release all of them immediately.”
Dr. Wisdom Dogbey financial analyst
A Call for Sensible Governance
Dr. Wisdom Dogbey’s commentary touches on several important issues facing Ghana today.
His views reflected a desire for a more pragmatic approach to governance, one that prioritizes the basic needs of the people, enforces laws without political bias, and respects civil liberties.
Whether discussing Galamsey, digitization, or democratic rights, his statements call for political will and moral responsibility in addressing these challenges. Ultimately, his perspective advocates for policies that prioritize the welfare of citizens over political gain.
READ ALSO; West Ham Features Jejereje in Kudus’ Video
