Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the Vice-Presidential Candidate for the NPP, has responded to the escalating concerns regarding the detrimental effects of illegal mining, commonly referred to as Galamsey, by urging all political parties to affirm their dedication to combating this issue through the establishment of what he termed a ‘binding national anti-Galamsey pact.’
During his address at the 13th Biennial Delegates Conference of the Association of Methodist Men’s Fellowship, which took place at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), he specifically called upon religious leaders, including those from the church, to spearhead efforts in engaging all pertinent stakeholders in the sector to formulate the proposed national anti-Galamsey pact.
He articulated that such a pact should outline a thorough strategy aimed at identifying lasting solutions to the Galamsey crisis, which poses a significant threat to the survival of humanity.
Dr. Prempeh also took this opportunity to highlight the importance of fostering religious harmony, advocating for peaceful coexistence among individuals regardless of their religious affiliations, and promoting a unified effort towards shared prosperity and advancement.
As the December elections draw near, he emphasized that Christians should serve as symbols of peace and unity. He asserted that elections should not create divisions; rather, they should serve as a reminder of the strength found in our diversity and the collective duty we hold in shaping the future of our nation.
NAPO emphasized that as the nation approaches the elections on December 7, and in light of the significant national discourse surrounding Galamsey, it is crucial for political parties to exhibit their dedication to combating Galamsey by endorsing a binding agreement based on a national consensus regarding this issue.
The Vice Presidential Candidate of the NPP promptly reassured the church and all citizens of Ghana that his party remains steadfast in its commitment to the fight against Galamsey, despite recent challenges.
He stated that the NPP would readily agree to sign such an agreement as a reaffirmation of their dedication. Furthermore, he mentioned that the NPP has presented a detailed strategy in its 2024 Manifesto aimed at addressing Galamsey while fostering a prosperous era for Ghanaian small-scale mining, which will generate wealth and employment opportunities, all while promoting responsible and sustainable mining practices that protect the environment and preserve water resources.
Dr. Prempeh expressed significant concern that, thus far, the main opposition party and its perennial candidate, John Dramani Mahama, have not clearly articulated their plans to tackle this pressing issue.
He urged them to disclose their strategic plan for the sector so that Ghanaians can evaluate it and make informed choices. Specifically, he called on them to commit to signing the proposed national anti-Galamsey agreement.
