The Deputy Minority Whip and Member of Parliament for Weija-Gbawe Constituency, Honourable Jerry Ahmed Shaib, has criticised the government’s handling of illegal mining, arguing that the worsening galamsey crisis demands immediate and decisive intervention. Honourable Shaib stated that the continuous spread of illegal mining signals a troubling lapse in enforcement and national commitment.
Discussing the scale of the issue, the Weija-Gbawe MP recalled the sacrifices made by public officials who lost their lives while responding to national emergencies linked to environmental degradation. He suggested that such painful events should have triggered stronger policy action against illegal mining.
According to the Deputy Minority Whip, many Ghanaians expect the government to intensify its anti galamsey efforts after the recent tragedies. Instead, he argued, illegal mining has expanded rapidly across several parts of the country.
Describing galamsey as a “worsening national situation”, Honourable Shaib asserted that it has become deeply visible in many communities, with environmental destruction continuing almost unchecked.
Additionally, he criticised what he described as misplaced public priorities among some political actors. The Weija-Gbawe MP argued that lavish displays of celebration and extravagance project the wrong message at a time when the nation is battling serious social and environmental challenges.
“We thought the loss of lives would force urgent action on galamsey. Instead, the menace has intensified and continues to spread across the country.”
Honourable Jerry Ahmed Shaib
In light of this, Honourable Shaib referenced Samuel Gyamfi while condemning what he viewed as excessive displays of wealth and ceremony amid worsening national hardship. He argued that public leadership demands sensitivity to prevailing conditions.
Moreover, the Deputy Minority Whip questioned the appropriateness of thanksgiving events when communities continue to grapple with avoidable disasters. He insisted that governance must remain focused on solving urgent problems affecting ordinary citizens.
Referencing public accountability, the Weija-Gbawe MP argued that leadership carries the responsibility of acting decisively when national threats become evident. Furthermore, Honourable Shaib called for renewed urgency in tackling environmental crimes. He stated that the fight against galamsey requires sustained political will, stronger enforcement and visible results.
Flood Victims Deserve Action As Pressure Mounts Over Disaster Response
Honourable Jerry Ahmed Shaib also criticised the government’s flood response, arguing that national leadership should place greater urgency on disaster relief and infrastructure planning. He stated that recent flooding exposed longstanding weaknesses in drainage systems and emergency preparedness.
Addressing leadership accountability, the Weija-Gbawe MP pointed to the long public service record of John Dramani Mahama. He argued that extensive leadership experience should translate into stronger solutions for recurring flood disasters.
The Deputy Minority Whip noted that flood management challenges have persisted for years despite repeated promises. He stressed that unresolved drainage failures continue to place communities at risk during heavy rains.
He also referenced vulnerable flood prone zones such as West Agbogbloshie. Honourable Shaib explained that waterways including the Lafa, the Densu and the Korle Lagoon remain central to the flooding problem.
“Promises alone will not save communities. Storm drains must work, waterways must be cleared and leadership must act with urgency.”
Honourable Jerry Ahmed Shaib
The Weija-Gbawe MP criticised ceremonial public engagements held while flood victims struggled for survival. He argued that moments of national distress demand empathy and direct intervention from leadership.
Additionally, Honourable Shaib recounted visiting affected families earlier in the day. He disclosed that two women lost their lives after floodwaters overwhelmed their homes.
He explained that one victim could not receive timely emergency care because an ambulance was unable to reach the flooded residence. The second victim, a 65 year old woman, died after floodwaters submerged her home.
“People lost their lives in the flood and the President is dancing at a national event. At such a time, people need rescue and reassurance.”
Honourable Jerry Ahmed Shaib
Moreover, the Deputy Minority Whip criticised the inadequate visible action during aerial assessments of flood affected areas. He argued that observation alone offers little comfort to displaced residents seeking urgent assistance.
In pointing out the anti flood task force established by government, Honourable Shaib questioned whether existing structures were delivering meaningful results for vulnerable communities.
Consequently, the Weija-Gbawe MP called for practical and sustained investments in drainage infrastructure, emergency access routes and disaster preparedness. He stressed that leadership must remain anchored in timely action that restores public confidence and safeguards lives.
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