Chairman Wontumi's conviction apt - Adib Saani

Executive Director of Jatikay Centre for Human Security and Peace Building, Adib Saani, has described the conviction and sentencing of Ashanti Regional New Patriotic Party (NPP) Chairman Bernard Antwi-Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, as a significant milestone in Ghana's fight against illegal mining.

A statement signed by its Executive Director, Adib Saani, welcomed the Accra High Court's decision to sentence Chairman Wontumi to 20 years imprisonment over illegal mining activities at Samreboi in the Western Region.

High Court finds Chairman Wontumi guilty in Samreboi illegal mining case

According to the organisation, the judgment reinforces the need for accountability in tackling the country's galamsey menace and demonstrates that the rule of law can prevail over impunity.

"For years, the Jatikay Centre has consistently called for genuine political commitment in the fight against galamsey and the prosecution of all offenders, irrespective of their political affiliation, social status or influence. Today's judgment represents an important step towards demonstrating that the rule of law can prevail over impunity," the statement said.

The Centre, however, cautioned that a single conviction would not be enough to eliminate illegal mining, urging authorities to ensure the fight is sustained beyond the high-profile case.

"While one conviction alone will not end illegal mining, it sends a strong signal that accountability is indispensable if Ghana is to protect its forests, rivers and other natural resources. We hope this marks the beginning of a new era in which the fight against galamsey is pursued consistently, impartially and without political interference," it stated.

It also commended the judiciary for its role in the prosecution and called on other state institutions to build on the momentum by pursuing all individuals involved in illegal mining, regardless of their status.

"The Jatikay Centre commends the judiciary for its role in upholding the rule of law and urges all relevant state institutions to sustain the momentum by ensuring that every person involved in illegal mining is held accountable," the statement noted.

It further stressed that only a fair, consistent and non-partisan enforcement of Ghana's mining laws would restore public confidence in the country's efforts to combat illegal mining.

"Only a fair, consistent and non-partisan approach will restore public confidence and secure lasting success in the fight against galamsey," it added.

NA/VPO

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