The New Patriotic Party (NPP’s) criticism of the Nationaal Democratic Congress (NDC’s) efforts to combat illegal mining, otheriwse known as galamsey, raises questions about their own track record on the issue.
Despite having eight years to address the canker that is eating deep into the fabric of our environment, the NPP seems to be exerting pressure on the NDC to deliver results within a mere three months in office.
This stance overlooks the current government’s efforts under President John Dramani Mahama to curb galamsey through punitive measures aimed at protecting the country’s environment.
The NDC government has taken steps to address concerns around natural resource extraction and youth unemployment, which are closely linked to the galamsey issue.
At the 2025 African Land Forces Summit in Accra, Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah emphasized the need for innovative solutions to tackle these challenges, highlighting the government’s commitment to enhancing security and promoting socioeconomic advancement.
However, the NPP has expressed concerns about the NDC’s approach, arguing that their inconsistent messaging and political maneuvering have undermined efforts to combat galamsey effectively.
In response, the NDC has pushed back, with individuals criticizing the NPP for their own failure to address the issue during their time in power.
Good thinking Ghanaians have even called for a state of emergency to be declared on the NPP due to their handling of galamsey during Akufo Addo’s era, but all efforts proved futile.
Given the complexity of the galamsey issue, it’s essential to consider the progress made by the current government in addressing this menace.
The NDC’s efforts to protect the environment and promote responsible natural resource management should be evaluated against the backdrop of the initiatives and achievements in this area.
