By: Kekeli K. Blamey
Eco-Conscious Citizens, an environmental advocacy group, has strongly criticized Organised Labour for calling off its nationwide strike against the devastating effects of illegal mining, also known as galamsey.
The group praised the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) and the Technical University Teachers Association of Ghana (TUTAG) for proceeding with their industrial action, aimed at pressuring the government to address pressing environmental concerns.
The Eco-Conscious Citizens emphasized the urgent need for decisive action, particularly declaring a State of Emergency to combat environmental destruction caused by galamsey in forest reserves and water bodies.
They stressed that failure to implement such measures would render the fight against galamsey ineffective.
To address the issue, the group called for several measures, including the deployment of military and police forces to remove illegal miners and their equipment from water bodies, forests, and farmlands.
They also demanded the immediate repeal of the legislative instrument (L.I. 2462) that allows mining and logging in forest reserves, as well as the revocation of mining licenses granted in these sensitive areas.
Furthermore, the group urged the government to stop issuing small-scale and community mining licenses until further notice and to investigate individuals implicated in the report by Professor Frimpong Boateng, which accused some public officials of engaging in illegal mining.
While acknowledging progress with the government’s agreement to repeal L.I. 2462, the group warned that it might be a “publicity stunt” aimed at delaying real action.
They urged the Minister for Environment, Science, and Innovation to take immediate action and speed up the repeal process.
Awula Serwah, Eco-Conscious Citizens’ coordinator, reaffirmed the group’s commitment to holding the government and political aspirants accountable, demanding stronger, immediate action to prevent further environmental degradation.
