Blaming NPP Alone Will Not Solve Galamsey – Actor Prince David Osei

Ghanaian actor Prince David Osei has urged Ghanaians to stop blaming the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) for the destructive effects of illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey. His comments come in the wake of increasing concern over the environmental degradation caused by these activities, which have drawn international attention due to their devastating impact on Ghana’s water bodies, lands, and overall ecosystem.

In a social media post on September 29, 2024, Osei called for a collective national effort to combat galamsey, emphasizing that the responsibility should not rest solely on the government. “We must prioritise this issue beyond political interests and work together as a nation to eradicate illegal mining. Let us unite and take decisive action to protect our environment and natural resources,” Osei wrote.

The actor’s statement highlights the need for unity in the fight against illegal mining, urging Ghanaians to move beyond partisan blame and focus on preserving the country’s natural heritage.

Background: #OccupyJulorbiHouse Protests

Osei’s remarks come in the midst of growing unrest related to galamsey, which has been a key issue raised during recent protests. Over the weekend, demonstrators under the banner of #OccupyJulorbiHouse were arrested after a three-day protest at the 37 Military Roundabout in Accra. The protesters, organized by Democracy Hub, called for action on illegal small-scale mining and economic mismanagement.

The protests reached a boiling point on Sunday, September 22, when tensions escalated between the demonstrators and the Ghana Police Service, leading to multiple arrests. The protesters were later arraigned before an Accra Circuit Court, where they faced five charges: conspiracy to commit a crime, unlawful assembly, causing unlawful damage, offensive conduct, breach of public peace, and assault on public officers.

All the protesters pleaded not guilty to the charges and are scheduled to reappear in court on October 8, 2024.

As the issue of galamsey continues to stir national debate, Osei’s call for a united front underscores the need for a broad-based approach to address the environmental damage caused by illegal mining.

Source: GhanaFeed.Com