Host of Peace FM’s Kokrokoo Morning Show, Kwami Sefa Kayi, has expressed disappointment with President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and the government over their handling of illegal mining activities, known locally as galamsey.
According to Sefa Kayi, the Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s decisive action against galamsey implicates the president and highlights the inefficiencies of Ghana’s security agencies.
During a panel discussion on his show, Sefa Kayi pointed out that the Asantehene‘s move to investigate and destool chiefs involved in illegal mining is a stark contrast to the government’s approach to combating the issue. He noted that Otumfuo’s proactive stance serves as an indictment on the president’s leadership.
“Otumfuo’s action was informed by a Chronicle report. He followed up by causing an NIB investigation. NIB is a state intelligence organization. So, if Otumfuo has caused the NIB to work for him, how about the president?” Sefa Kayi asked.
“At the end of the day, while we applaud Otumfuo, it is an indictment on the president, the government, and our security agencies. Because if it can be done by the Asantehene, then why not?”
Sefa Kayi’s remarks came after the Asantehene sanctioned the destoolment of several chiefs, including Sabronum Gyaasehene Nana Awua Gyau, Sabronum Akyeamehene, and Baamuhene, following their alleged involvement in galamsey.
On August 26, 2024, Otumfuo ordered these actions based on an investigation by the National Investigations Bureau (NIB), which he had personally commissioned.
Otumfuo’s bold decision has intensified public calls for the government to take stronger measures against illegal mining, a practice that continues to wreak havoc on the environment and threatens the country’s natural resources.
As Sefa Kayi pointed out, the Asantehene’s ability to leverage state institutions to address the issue raises questions about the government’s commitment to effectively tackling galamsey.
The recent destoolments come amid ongoing pressure on President Akufo-Addo to fulfil his promises to eliminate illegal mining and protect Ghana’s water bodies and forests from further degradation.