Nana Ayew Afriye, MP for Effiduase/Asokore, has accused the NDC of importing foreign miners to engage in illegal galamsey activities to undermine the NPP’s electoral prospects. He emphasizes the distinct difference between small-scale mining by locals and illegal operations by foreign nationals. The NPP remains committed to combating this illegal activity, asserting that it poses threats to water bodies and electoral integrity.
Nana Ayew Afriye, the Member of Parliament for Effiduase/Asokore in the Ashanti Region, has publicly accused the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) of intentionally undermining river bodies across Ghana. He alleges that the NDC is engaging in a campaign to destabilize areas favorable to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) by importing foreign nationals from Togo and Burkina Faso to engage in illegal mining practices commonly known as galamsey. During a recent campaign event, which was shared in a video by GHOne TV, the MP indicated that this strategy is a desperate reaction to the NPP’s potential electoral gains in constituencies impacted by illegal mining. “God has placed us as number one because He wants us to win. The voice of the people is the voice of God. God speaks through us,” Mr. Afriye stated. He also suggested that recent research indicated a likely scenario where the NPP could gain 18 additional parliamentary seats in the upcoming election—this perceived threat could be instigating the NDC’s current tactics. The MP made it clear that there is a distinct difference between small-scale mining conducted by local miners and the illegal activities attributed to foreigners. He stated, “Small-scale mining is different from what the Togolese and Burkinabes that the NDC has imported into the country to mine.” Highlighting the NPP’s dedication to addressing the issue, Mr. Afriye assured constituents of their commitment to combatting illegal mining, particularly in sensitive water bodies. He mentioned, “We will make sure that we get such people,” referring to the foreign miners. Furthermore, Afriye expressed concerns about opposition forces attempting to incite confusion in the lead-up to elections. Despite these challenges, he reaffirmed that the NPP would not relent in its efforts against illegal mining. In recent weeks, the national conversation surrounding galamsey has escalated, with citizens demanding stringent measures from the government to curtail these illicit activities, leading to protests spearheaded by various organizations such as Democracy Hub, some of which have resulted in legal repercussions for participants.
The issue of illegal mining, particularly activities referred to as galamsey, has become a significant concern in Ghana, impacting the environment and political landscape. The government and various stakeholders have been under pressure to address these activities, especially in relation to their effects on water bodies. Recent accusations against the NDC by NPP members have highlighted the political ramifications of these mining activities, suggesting a strategy to undermine political opponents while intensifying calls from the public for responsible mining practices and enforcement of laws governing mining in Ghana.
In conclusion, Nana Ayew Afriye’s statements reflect the heightened tensions surrounding illegal mining in Ghana and its implications for the political climate as elections approach. The ongoing conflict between the NPP and NDC over accusations of destabilizing tactics further underscores the complexity of addressing illegal mining while maintaining political integrity. The NPP’s commitment to combat illegal practices and regulate mining activities demonstrates a proactive approach amidst increasing public demand for accountability.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
