The Minority in Parliament has sharply criticised the government’s handling of illegal mining, describing the fight against galamsey as ineffective and a sign of weakened state control.
Addressing journalists during activities marking President John Dramani Mahama’s one-year anniversary in office, the Minority accused the government of poor enforcement and compromised supply chains that continue to fuel illegal mining across the country.
They referenced the 2025 helicopter crash that killed eight people, including two ministers, noting that the tragedy underscored the deadly and far-reaching consequences of galamsey. Despite the incident, the Minority said illegal mining remains widespread, with severe environmental and social impacts.
According to the Minority, major rivers such as the Pra, Ankobra and Birim have been heavily polluted, farmlands destroyed, and forest reserves degraded by mining activities. They also linked the ongoing destruction of water bodies to water supply challenges in Accra and other parts of the country.
The Minority argued that the persistence of galamsey reflects institutional failure and a lack of political will to confront powerful interests behind the illegal trade. They warned that public confidence in state institutions is being eroded as environmental degradation continues with little accountability.
They are calling for stronger enforcement, transparency in mineral supply chains and comprehensive reforms to restore state authority and protect the country’s natural resources.
