Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, the running mate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has assured the people of Amenfi Central that an NDC government would not impose a blanket ban on illegal mining, known as galamsey, if they win the 2024 elections. Instead, she emphasized that a future NDC administration would focus on instituting measures for responsible mining to protect the environment while allowing people to sustain their livelihoods.
Speaking during a campaign event in the Amenfi Central constituency, a key area affected by galamsey, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang acknowledged the economic challenges faced by communities that rely on small-scale mining, citing the lack of alternative employment opportunities. “It makes no sense to ban galamsey when there are no alternative livelihoods,” she stated, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that would enable mining activities while ensuring environmental protections are in place.
Her stance, however, seems to contrast with the broader position of the NDC, which has been vocally critical of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) for allegedly turning a blind eye to the devastation caused by illegal mining. The NDC has repeatedly called for the government to take decisive action to halt galamsey, especially as it has contributed to the pollution of water bodies across the country.
This apparent discrepancy between Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s remarks and the party’s public stance on galamsey could raise questions about the NDC’s policy coherence on the issue. While the party has advocated for stricter measures to protect the environment, its running mate is now promoting responsible mining as a solution, rather than an outright ban.
The debate over illegal mining remains a critical issue in Ghana, particularly in regions like Amenfi Central, where galamsey serves as a major source of income for many. As both major political parties gear up for the 2024 elections, the management of the galamsey crisis will likely be a key point of contention.
Prof. Opoku-Agyemang’s call for responsible mining reflects the NDC’s attempt to balance environmental conservation with the economic realities of mining-dependent communities, but the party may need to clarify its unified position as the campaign season progresses.
Watch a Video of the interaction in the link below….
https://web.facebook.com/reel/826793289309488
Source: GhanaFeed.Com