John Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has acknowledged that the fight against illegal mining, also known as galamsey, presents a significant challenge that will require substantial political commitment.
Speaking to religious leaders in the Bono Region, Mahama stressed that tackling this issue will necessitate making sacrifices in other areas.
He promised that, if elected, the NDC would conduct a thorough audit of all mining concessions.
He noted the critical role of gold in Ghana’s economy and pointed out that the rise in gold production from 80 tons to 135 tons per year due to galamsey could result in decreased production and export levels as efforts are made to combat illegal mining.
“Due to galamsey, our gold production increased from 80 tons per year to 135 tons per year. We must be prepared for a reduction in production, which will inevitably lead to a decrease in exports.”
Mahama also highlighted the potential impact on employment, as many young people who depend on galamsey for their livelihood could face job losses.
“Many young people who currently rely on galamsey for their livelihood would face unemployment. These are two significant consequences that must be considered before starting the fight. The risks are worth the effort.”
He emphasized that these challenges must be carefully considered before launching a major crackdown on illegal mining.
“Gold is crucial to Ghana’s economy,” Mahama said.
Regarding environmental concerns, Mahama called for the removal of miners from forest reserves, citing the damage done to 37 reserves.
“We need to remove miners from forest reserves. Thirty-seven forest reserves have been entered and destroyed. The first step is to get them out.”
He stressed the need to protect these areas as a priority.
On the broader issue of free speech, Mahama voiced concern about a growing ‘culture of silence’ in Ghana, suggesting that people are hesitant to speak out against the government.
We must not be afraid to speak the truth at all times,” he said. “Both the Bible and the Quran instruct us to abide by the truth. Speaking the truth means saying things as they are, without fear or favour, regardless of which government is in power.”
“Unfortunately, this has not been the case. When the NDC is in office, there is an atmosphere where people can speak freely and criticize the government. But when the other party is in power, the country goes silent, and it seems like people are afraid to speak out.
“I have noticed that when people want to criticise the government, they generalize and say ‘you politicians’ rather than directly addressing those who are at fault. This reluctance to speak directly needs to be addressed because the actions of leaders affect your congregation and you directly.”
He urged for truthfulness and openness, regardless of the political climate.
In a related development, Ahmed Ibrahim, NDC MP for Banda, claimed that former NPP Majority Leader Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu was removed from his position for his lack of support for the anti-gay bill.
Ibrahim alleged that President Akufo-Addo and the US Ambassador to Ghana had influenced the decision to block the bill.
“When the bill was brought to Parliament, the President called the Speaker and mentioned that the pressure from the American ambassador was significant, advising against it. Is Nana Akufo-Addo the President of Ghana, or the President of the American ambassador? Speaker Bagbin informed us that there was an issue, and the Speaker said that if the MP supported the bill, it would pass. Even after the ambassador tried to intervene with the Speaker, the Speaker still stated that the bill would be passed.”
“There was a lot of pressure on the Majority Leader to pass the bill. However, his own colleagues prevented him from supporting it, which led to his replacement.
“That’s why Kyei Mensah is no longer the leader—he paid the price. If he has paid the price, what are you doing? It is time for you to defend us. You taught us these values. We have passed the bill. Now you need to stand with us. The Chief Justice, appointed by Nana Akufo-Addo, could interfere, which is why I am concerned about the bill being enacted.
“The President has said it will happen, so we need strong pressure from you. We must counter any opposition and stand firm to protect Ghanaian family values.”
He criticized the President for allegedly prioritizing the US Ambassador’s views over Ghanaian interests and called on religious leaders to support and uphold Ghanaian family values amidst ongoing debates.