File photo of galamsey activities
The New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) 2024 parliamentary candidate for Tema West, Dennis Amfo-Sefah, has alleged that illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey, has worsened because the Gold Board established under the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) is purchasing gold from illegal miners.
According to him, the NDC made political gains from the galamsey issue while in opposition but has failed to address the problem since assuming office.
He argued that the party’s earlier campaign against illegal mining succeeded in rallying civil society groups, academia, trade unions, and private citizens against the previous administration.
Amfo-Sefah also referenced former President Nana Akufo-Addo’s commitment to tackle galamsey, noting that despite his pledge to stake his presidency on the fight, the NDC and its allies dismissed those efforts.
He further recalled comments by Sam George, who allegedly said any government serious about ending illegal mining could do so within 48 hours.
Speaking on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM with host Kwabena Agyapong, Amfo-Sefah claimed illegal miners have become more emboldened because they believe there is now a ready market for their gold.
“The former President placed his presidency on the line in the fight against galamsey, yet we had the likes of Sam George saying the President could have ended it in 48 hours. Under the NDC, we now have a Gold Board purchasing gold from illegal miners.
"Galamsey has worsened because the miners have become bold, knowing the Gold Board is doing business with them,” he stated.
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