Accra: The Minority Leader, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has called on all political actors in Ghana to put aside partisan differences and join forces in combating the pressing issue of illegal mining, locally known as galamsey. He emphasized the need for a unified national agenda rather than viewing the fight against illegal mining through the lens of party politics.
According to Ghana News Agency, Afenyo-Markin addressed Parliament, urging political leaders to agree on core national issues and to work collaboratively to tackle the galamsey menace. He made these remarks following a violent attack on an anti-galamsey taskforce in Asutifi South in the Ahafo Region. This incident has reignited concerns over the environmental and social damage caused by illegal mining activities.
Afenyo-Markin expressed his disappointment over how political interests have consistently hampered efforts to address the galamsey problem. He stressed the need for leaders to prioritize the national interest above party loyalty, as political convenience and the pursuit of electoral gains have undermined the fight against illegal mining.
The attack involved a mob assault on the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS) operatives, including military personnel, during a lawful operation in Hwidiem, Ahafo Region. Members of Parliament for Asutifi North and South, Ebenezer Kwaku Addo and Collins Dauda, are reportedly under investigation for allegedly interfering with the taskforce's operations and inciting the violence.
The incident has prompted widespread condemnation and raised concerns about political complicity in illegal mining activities. Despite various government initiatives, such as the establishment of NAIMOS and the recent Ghana Gold Board Bill, enforcement has been weak and inconsistent, allowing illegal mining to continue ravaging regions like Ashanti, Eastern, and Western Ghana.
Afenyo-Markin's call for national solidarity marked a shift from partisan critique to a more unified approach. He urged political actors, civil society organisations, traditional leaders, and the media to collaborate in combating galamsey. He warned that failing to act decisively could lead to irreversible environmental degradation and social unrest.