Media Coalition Against Galamsey to stage red band protest October 10

The Media Coalition Against Galamsey has announced plans to stage a “Red Band” protest on October 10, 2024, in solidarity with Organised Labour’s upcoming indefinite strike. The protest aims to raise awareness and pressure the government to take decisive action against illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey.

Kenneth Ashigbey, the Convener of the Coalition, made this announcement during an interview on the Citi Breakfast Show with Bernard Avle on Wednesday, October 9. He stated that the demonstration is a response to the government’s failure to implement a ban on illegal mining, despite repeated calls to address the ongoing menace.

The Coalition is urging participants to show support by wearing red bands on their arms or heads and tying red bands to cars, motorbikes, bicycles, and other vehicles. Supporters are encouraged to share photos and videos of their participation on social media using the hashtags #StopGalamseyNow, #SaveOurLand, and #SaveOurFuture.

In a public statement, the Coalition called on Ghanaians to maintain the protest indefinitely until the government takes concrete steps to end illegal mining and mitigate the environmental destruction it causes.