Dr. Ing. Ken Ashigbey, Convenor of the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, has strongly criticized politicians involved in illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey.
He highlighted cases such as Akonta Mining and Heritage Imperial, which have been implicated in illegal activities within forest reserves but have avoided accountability despite numerous petitions.
Dr. Ashigbey noted that politicians have greatly profited from the exploitation of mining, to the detriment of the public.
He praised journalists for their efforts in uncovering illegal mining and urged them to continue holding leaders accountable for the rise in galamsey during an interview with Selorm Adonoo on The Point of View on Channel One TV.
His comments came in response to Ghana Water Limited’s (GWL) announcement that Cape Coast, Elmina, and nearby communities in the Central Region will face water shortages due to galamsey.
He expressed satisfaction with journalists’ proactive stance and emphasized the need for unity among politicians to address the galamsey crisis.
Dr. Ashigbey urged current Vice President Dr. Bawumia, former President John Mahama, and the current President to collaborate and focus on resolving the crisis rather than engaging in political disputes.
“The challenge we face is that our politicians have benefited from this illegality and exploitation. It’s crucial that we confront our leaders and demand that they work together to address this crisis.
All politicians need to unite and figure out how to tackle this issue. They should be part of the solution, not the problem,” he said.
Dr. Ashigbey also stressed the media’s role as a crucial watchdog, urging them to rally together to ensure the current administration and government address and reverse the damage caused by galamsey.
He warned that without significant action, the situation will not improve.
GWL explained that pollution in the catchment area has drastically reduced water intake, with about 60% of the catchment capacity silted due to galamsey.
The Sekyere Hemang Water Treatment Plant (WTP) has faced a major demand-supply gap due to inadequate raw water intake caused by pollution of the Pra River.
