Felix Kwakye Ofosu, spokesperson for President John Mahama, has reaffirmed the President’s unwavering commitment to combating illegal mining, commonly known as Galamsey.
He emphasized that President Mahama is fully dedicated to this cause and intends to pursue it with “ruthless” determination.
Ofosu acknowledged that while the fight against illegal mining has not been at the forefront of national discourse since President Mahama’s inauguration, this was due to other pressing issues that demanded immediate attention.
He noted that despite these challenges, the President remains resolute in addressing the galamsey menace, recognizing its severe impact on the environment and local communities.
“But he definitely abhors Galamsey and will be taking firm, stern, decisive action to tackle the problem. In the same way that matters like education, [and] the economy have come up Galamsey will come up.
“Of course, 14 days [in office] is simply not sufficient to broach every single subject that you campaign on. So I’m sure you appreciate they need to give him some time”.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu
The President’s Spokesperson further clarified that, although he cannot definitively state whether President Mahama will repeal L. I 2462, as they have not yet had that specific discussion, he believes the President would not be opposed to revoking it.
He pointed out that the regulation appears to be detrimental and offers no clear benefits to the people of Ghana.
Kwakye Ofosu underscored the President’s commitment to policies that serve the nation’s best interests and suggested that any law proving harmful or counterproductive would likely be reconsidered under Mahama’s administration.
He also emphasized that the approach to tackling illegal mining, or galamsey, must be holistic and comprehensive.
He suggested that addressing this issue requires more than just isolated actions or temporary measures. “We cannot sprinkle some shallow policies on the matter and hope that it vanishes”.
Comprehensive Approach Needed to Address Galamsey Crisis
Furthermore, Felix Kwakye Ofosu highlighted that galamsey is a deeply entrenched issue in Ghana. He noted that in the past, this illegal mining activity was primarily undertaken by frustrated youths who lacked alternative employment opportunities.
Ofosu suggested that if galamsey had remained solely a means of survival for these individuals, the problem might have been more manageable and possibly resolved by now.
He noted that, however, the situation has since evolved, becoming more complex and widespread, thus requiring a more robust and multifaceted approach to address its underlying causes and consequences effectively.
“What has happened is that over time, there are powerful people in society spread across the entire strata who are profiting from this and are behind the people doing this. So, it has become difficult, it has become ‘hydra-hydrate’. You know, you remove one problem out of the way, and another one pops up.
“What has been lacking is a political will to take action that may even offend persons who support the political party that has produced a president who is taking that action”.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu
Ofosu further emphasized that President Akufo-Addo lacked the necessary courage to confront the galamsey operators within his government.
In contrast, he asserted that President Mahama possesses the resolve and determination required to tackle the issue head-on.
He highlighted President Mahama’s track record of holding his appointees accountable, even when it meant taking tough actions against close associates or friends. T
This, Ofosu noted, demonstrates Mahama’s commitment to governance and his willingness to make difficult decisions in the national interest. “He believes in the roots and branches approach”.
He emphasized the importance of addressing the galamsey issue thoroughly and holistically, urging that merely superficial measures will not suffice.
He maintained that “It is crucial to tackle the problem comprehensively” rather than engaging in superficial efforts or public relations stunts designed to create the illusion of progress while the issue continues to fester beneath the surface.
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