Former Minority Leader and Tamale South MP, Haruna Iddrisu, has opined that if there was anyone to blame for the illegal mining activities that have escalated in the country, then President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo must accept responsibility.
He stated that former President John Dramani Mahama cannot be blamed for the illegal mining activities.
He explained that all mineral resources in Ghana are constitutionally vested in the sitting president, making it surprising that some would try to shift the blame to a former president who is no longer in office.
The lawmaker speaking at a campaign launch in Hamile, Lambusie constituency, said, “When people talk about galamsey, they forget one important thing.
“They should read Article 268 of the Constitution: all mineral resources in Ghana are vested in the president. That president is Nana Akufo-Addo, not John Mahama. If it is not being managed well, if it is being handled in a way that destroys our livelihoods, we will hold Nana Addo solely responsible.
“So, they should stop dragging John Mahama’s name into it. We did not give John Mahama the power, authority, or mandate today to oversee the proper management of our mineral resources. That responsibility lies with Nana Akufo-Addo.”