A former General Secretary of the Christian Council, Rev. Dr Kwabena Opuni-Frimpong, has urged politicians to be cautious with their public remarks on illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
According to him, some of their statements appear to justify the harmful practice.
He criticised the contradictory comments from some government officials, warning that they could be perceived as disregarding the public's concerns.
“Some of our Ministers of State must be a bit mindful of their statements. Some of their statements are hurting and are very contradictory. If I hear a minister saying if not for mining, the dollar would have been GH¢25 … the more some of them talk like this in public, it suggests that they are taking us for granted. In fact, some are even saying as for mining we won’t stop,” he said.
Read also: ‘If not for mining, cedi could be ¢25 to $1’ — Sulemanu Koney on saving local currency
His comments followed a statement by Sulemanu Koney, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, who argued that the mining sector plays a crucial role in stabilising the local currency, suggesting that without it, the cedi could have depreciated further, possibly to ¢25 to $1.
This view aligns with other political figures, including NPP MP Dr Ayew Afriyie, who recently stated that the government has no plans to ban galamsey, despite the mounting pressure from environmental groups and the public.
Read also: We won’t ban galamsey today or tomorrow – NPP MP Ayew Afriyie
In light of this, Rev. Opuni-Frimpong urged the public not to ease up on their protest.
He stressed the importance of maintaining pressure on the government to address the issue, stating that the harmful effects of galamsey on the environment must not be overlooked.
He also called on the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) to continue its advocacy efforts, emphasizing the need for collective action to make the government take the concerns seriously.
"We must not give an inch; we must all go out to let the government know that we are serious. They are hurting us," he declared.
Latest Stories
-
Mahama promises a Property Rights of Spouses Bill to protect women in marriage
21 mins -
We’ll implement national zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment, domestic violence – Mahama
26 mins -
Election 2024: GII cautions first-time voters against electoral offences
35 mins -
We’ll increase women’s representation in Parliament and leadership roles – Mahama
37 mins -
WISHH hosts Soy Food Festival 2024 in Ghana to tackle food security challenges
43 mins -
CDKN Ghana supports young advocates to develop solutions towards addressing climate change
47 mins -
Saglemi housing project to commence in November – Oppong Nkrumah
50 mins -
Mahama’s full speech at NDC Women’s Manifesto launch
52 mins -
There is a need for forensic audit of voter’s register – Nana Yaa Jantuah
1 hour -
Education sector unions to meet Minister on Tuesday amid strike
2 hours -
Vote massively for NPP to continue the transformation of the nation – Dr Adutwum
2 hours -
France’s Griezmann retires from internationals
2 hours -
Mbappé pays emotional tribute to Griezmann following his retirement from France national team
2 hours -
Be cautious with remarks on galamsey – Rev. Opuni-Frimpong to politicians
2 hours -
FirstBank Ghana champions youth development at National Youth Conference
3 hours