The debate surrounding Ghana’s fight against illegal mining has taken a new turn, with MP for Gomoa Central and political commentator Kwame Asare Obeng, popularly known as A-Plus, challenging the government’s approach to justice. His comments come in response to a statement made by the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Emmanuel Armah Kofi Buah, regarding the prosecution of individuals involved in illegal mining.
The minister recently declared that any political figure interfering with the fight against illegal mining, also known as “galamsey,” would be named and shamed. He further emphasized that no one should attempt to call him to plead on behalf of offenders. However, A-Plus, in a strongly worded Facebook post, questioned the fairness of the “naming and shaming” approach when it appears that only the wealthy and politically connected benefit from such leniency.
In his post, A-Plus pointed out that while the government may publicly disgrace influential individuals involved in illegal mining, it is often the poor laborers at these mining sites who face actual arrests and imprisonment. He argued that if naming and shaming were truly an effective form of punishment, then the same logic should apply to petty criminals, such as those who steal food items or livestock. He sarcastically suggested that if public humiliation is deemed sufficient, the government might as well abolish the Criminal Offences Act, shut down prisons, and simply name and shame all offenders instead of selectively enforcing the law.
His remarks have sparked conversations online, with many agreeing that Ghana’s justice system tends to be harsher on the underprivileged while the powerful often escape significant consequences. Others, however, argue that the minister’s approach is a step in the right direction toward exposing those who exploit illegal mining for personal gain.
As discussions continue, A-Plus’s criticism raises broader concerns about fairness, selective justice, and the effectiveness of measures taken to curb illegal mining. Whether the government will respond to his concerns remains to be seen, but his comments have undoubtedly ignited an important national conversation.
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