Popular Ghanaian journalist and host of Newsfile on Joy News, Samson Lardy, has called on President John Mahama to take swift action against members of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), especially the politicians and ministers who are allegedly involved in illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
Speaking on his show, Lardy expressed concern over reports that some individuals linked to the NDC have taken control of illegal mining operations following the change in government. He warned that politically connected people are acting with impunity and seizing mining concessions from others, only to sell them to Chinese nationals.
In his statement, Lardy emphasized the seriousness of the issue and urged President Mahama to intervene immediately.
“My take today is on galamsey. Persons reported to be associated with the NDC appear to be taking over the reins of power and the galamsey underworld. Ongoing military efforts have led to the seizure of ten excavators and a bulldozer in the Tano Forest Reserve. This is disturbing information pointing to politically connected persons acting with impunity, seizing and selling off others’ lawfully acquired concessions to Chinese. This has been happening since the change in government. Mr. President, act swiftly,” he said.
His remarks shows the growing concerns over the influence of powerful individuals in illegal mining operations. Despite efforts by security forces to clamp down on galamsey, the illegal activity continues to thrive, with reports of political interference making enforcement difficult.
Galamsey has been a major problem in Ghana, leading to environmental destruction, water pollution, and loss of farmlands. Over the years, both the NDC and the New Patriotic Party (NPP) have been accused of shielding their members involved in the illegal trade.
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