The Director of Communications of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Richard Ahiagbah, has called for depoliticization of the illegal small-scale mining (Galamsey) issues.
He described Galamsey as a menace that requires all and sundry to come on board to fight it.
He wrote on his X page that “Is it true that the leadership of Organized Labor received a GHC400,000 donation from the NDC? 2. If it is true, is Organized Labor raising funds for anything? 3. If yes, have they approached other political parties for donations? 4. If Organized Labor is not raising funds, what informed the NDC’s donation? 2. How is the NDC’s donation related to Organized Labor’s sudden anti-galamsey advocacy and the subsequent declaration of a nationwide strike? 3. Is it a mere coincidence, or there is more to it? I would vouch for Organized Labor, but that won’t be enough because it smells fishy. … Galamsey is a menace. Let’s not politicize the fight to defeat it…”
His comments come at a time when President Akufo-Addo has made a plea to labour unions for more time to address galamsey.
The President had called on organised labour to reconsider its planned nationwide strike set for October 10, highlighting his commitment to addressing concerns related to illegal mining, which is severely damaging the environment.
This appeal was made during a closed-door meeting with union leaders on October 3, where illegal mining was a key focus of discussion. Sources indicate that the President requested a postponement of the strike to allow more time to address the unions’ demands.
Organised Labour has voiced dissatisfaction with what they view as the government’s inadequate response to illegal mining, which they argue is causing significant environmental harm. The unions are pushing for urgent action to protect Ghana’s natural resources.
Analysts caution that a nationwide strike could have far-reaching effects, potentially disrupting multiple sectors of the economy. This looming threat highlights the need for prompt action.
In response to the escalating tensions, President Akufo-Addo has pledged to convene another meeting with Organised Labour next week to further discuss their concerns and seek potential solutions.
A source noted that the President’s willingness to engage in dialogue underscores the seriousness of the situation and the need for collaboration between the government and labour groups.
