Julius Kwame Anthony, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Spokesperson on Youth Development, has urgently asserted that the ongoing issue of illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, can only be effectively addressed by voting the New Patriotic Party (NPP) out of power in the upcoming elections.
During a recent discussion, Anthony referenced comments by Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the NPP Flagbearer’s running mate, who promised to return seized excavators to galamsey operators if the NPP regains power.
He also highlighted remarks from Dr. Nana Yaw Afriyie, who allegedly stated that the NPP would never halt galamsey activities.
According to Anthony, President Akufo-Addo has failed to prosecute foreign nationals involved in illegal mining. For instance, the case of Aisha Huang, a Chinese national who was arrested for illegal mining but was later deported without facing trial, is a clear example of this. Anthony cited his government’s reliance on financial aid from these countries as a barrier to justice.
He emphasized that the NPP’s continued leadership threatens the country’s efforts to combat illegal mining.
Under the NPP’s leadership, the fight against galamsey has been marred by controversies and a perceived lack of commitment, emboldening illegal miners and hindering the battle’s progress.
“Galamsey persists in this country because the President has allowed it to flourish so that even those caught cannot be prosecuted. Take the case of Aisha Huang, for instance. The President has compromised the nation while begging for support abroad.
He cannot hold foreign offenders accountable for their role in damaging our environment,” Anthony stated during a panel discussion on TV3’s NewDay.
He criticized the government for prioritizing international relations over local justice, arguing that if individuals like Aisha Huang could evade punishment, it undermines the sense of fairness for citizens protesting against these activities.
Anthony called for a decisive change in leadership, offering hope that a new regime could restore integrity and accountability in addressing galamsey.
