A senior lecturer at Kumasi Technical University (KsTU), Dr. Sampson Anomah, has criticised Organised Labour for overstepping its primary role by delving into political matters with its recent demands on the government regarding illegal mining, or ‘galamsey.’
Speaking during an interview on Joy News’ PM Express on Wednesday, October 8, Dr. Anomah expressed concern over the union’s ultimatum, urging the government to declare a state of emergency to tackle the galamsey issue or risk a nationwide strike. He argued that such actions stray from the union’s main focus.
“This is a national interest issue, not something for Organized Labour to lead with a strike. Their core mandate is to protect workers’ rights, not to force the government to take drastic political actions,” he said.
Dr. Sampson Anomah suggested that Organised Labour’s sudden emphasis on illegal mining, or ‘galamsey,’ so close to the upcoming national elections, appears politically motivated.
He argued that the timing of the union’s focus on the issue, just two months before the polls, raises suspicions about the true intent behind their demands.
“Where was Labour when this issue persisted for years? Why now, when we are close to a major election?” he asked.
He added, “If you see a sound person behaving like a mad person, there’s usually something behind it.”
Dr. Anomah also criticised Organised Labour’s call for a state of emergency, arguing that it was impractical given the limited time frame. He cautioned that such a drastic measure could lead to disorder and would not effectively resolve the long-standing issue of illegal mining.
In response, Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, founder of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining, countered Dr. Anomah’s assertions on the same program. Dr. Ashigbey dismissed claims of political motivation, stressing the pressing need to address the galamsey crisis urgently.
“This is not about politics; this is about survival. People are dying because of illegal mining, and our water bodies are being destroyed,” he said passionately.
Dr Ashigbey further challenged Dr Anomah to take the issue more seriously and defended the involvement of Organized Labour.
He argued that protecting the nation’s water bodies is in everyone’s interest.
“Posterity will judge all of us,” Dr Ashigbey warned, adding that the Coalition will meet Dr Anomah in court if necessary.
