The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG) has urged the Government of Ghana to take immediate and decisive measures to combat illegal mining, locally referred to as galamsey, emphasizing that national security and environmental stability are under threat.
At a press conference in Accra, the Coalition demanded the immediate revocation of Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462, which permits mining in forest reserves. GCAG cautioned that failure to act could trigger nationwide protests to protect the country’s environment, water bodies, and public safety.
Revoke L.I. 2462—Not Amend It
The Convenor of the Coalition, Dr. Kenneth Ashigbey, who addressed the media stressed that GCAG will only accept the complete withdrawal—not an amendment—of L.I. 2462.
He accused the government of reneging on its promise to repeal the regulation, despite multiple public assurances before and after the 2024 general elections.
“Despite public declarations and commitments, the revocation has yet to appear on Parliament’s order of business,” Dr. Ashigbey said. “This delay is a betrayal of public trust. If not revoked urgently, the new amendment will mature and worsen the situation.”
He warned that if the government fails to act swiftly, civil society would return to the courts to seek redress.
Declare a State of Emergency in Galamsey Zones
Dr. Ashigbey also called on the government to declare a state of emergency in areas heavily affected by illegal mining. Citing increasing lawlessness and violent attacks, including a recent incident involving former MP Dr. Hannah Bissiw, he said galamsey hotspots are evolving into havens for armed groups and mercenaries.
“These are no longer just environmental hazards. They are incubators for violence. A state of emergency, backed by military presence, drone surveillance, and asset freezes, is the only way to regain control,” he stated.
End Police Complicity and Protect Forestry Officers
The GCAG Convenor raised alarm over police officers allegedly shielding illegal miners. He referred specifically to the Akomfere incident, where Chinese nationals engaged in galamsey were reportedly protected by security personnel.
“The government must stop handling this crisis with kid gloves,” he said. “There must be transparency in police deployments, and implicated officers must be interdicted and prosecuted.”
He also called for armed protection for staff of the Forestry Commission, who continue to face attacks in the line of duty.
“If forest mining is truly ‘haram’ as stated by the CEO of Goldbod, then let’s see action—repeal the L.I. and protect our officers.”
Prosecute Politically Exposed Persons Involved in Galamsey
Dr. Ashigbey welcomed the arrest of a Director of Akonta Mining but urged broader enforcement efforts targeting politically exposed persons in both the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
He cited reports implicating Hon. Oscar Larbi and some constituency executives in Axim and Dunkwa in illegal mining operations and called for independent investigations and prosecutions.
“The NDC must show leadership by disciplining its implicated members, just as the government must act on the Prof. Frimpong-Boateng report,” he added.
Senyo Hosi to Ghanaians: Rise Up or Lose Your Future
Also speaking at the press conference, Policy Analyst and GCAG member, Mr. Senyo Hosi, delivered a powerful call to action, urging Ghanaians—especially the middle class—to rise above apathy and demand accountability from the government.
“We’ve tried petitions, dialogue, and press conferences. If persuasion fails, we’ll march,” he said. “This is a democracy. We need one million people marching peacefully from Independence Arch to Parliament.”
Hosi criticised what he described as the “complacency of the privileged,” arguing that while the country faces an existential crisis, the elite remain detached.
“We spend more time debating religion than fighting for clean water. Meanwhile, our leaders and their families are preparing to escape. Where will yours go?” he asked.
He also dismissed the notion that galamsey significantly contributes to the national economy, describing it as a net loss.
“It brings almost no tax revenue. The profits serve a few while the nation suffers. Galamsey is not economic empowerment—it is economic suicide.”
A Test of Leadership and National Integrity
Mr. Hosi further asserted that the failure to revoke L.I. 2462 is a litmus test of leadership and credibility.
“The President promised to revoke it. The Minister echoed him. But it still stands. Why? Because criminal interests have captured the state,” he declared.
Drawing a personal contrast, Hosi recalled how his father made sacrifices to secure his future and urged today’s leaders to make similar sacrifices for the country. “This isn’t about GDP. It’s about dignity, survival, and national integrity.”
Final Warning: Act or Face Mass Protest
GCAG is prepared to mobilize the public if the government does not act decisively. “We’re not calling for violence—we’re calling for action,” Hosi added. “Revoke the L.I., protect our forests, prosecute the guilty. Or prepare for a mass movement of the people. This is not an NPP or NDC matter. This is a Ghana matter, ” he added.
