The Chairman of the Sanitation and Water Resources Committee of Parliament, John Oti Bless, has issued a scathing call for the resignation of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo due to the government’s glaring failure to address the scourge of illegal mining, also known as galamsey
. In 2017, President Akufo-Addo made a bold pledge to tackle the problem of galamsey, stating unequivocally that he would put his presidency on the line to ensure its eradication.
However, despite this lofty commitment, the country’s water bodies continue to be ravaged by the activities of illegal miners, prompting renewed calls for urgent action from stakeholders.
In a candid interview with Citi News, John Oti Bless, who is also the Member of Parliament for Nkwanta North, expressed his deep disappointment and frustration with the government’s inaction on the issue.
He emphasized that President Akufo-Addo’s failure to address the problem of galamsey is utterly unacceptable, particularly given his previous commitment to tackling it head-on. Bless noted that the situation has become increasingly dire, with the World Bank warning that Ghana may need to import water in the near future due to the devastating impact of galamsey on the country’s water resources.
Bless questioned the president’s commitment to human rights and the rule of law, given the severity of the situation.
As a human rights lawyer, he expected more from President Akufo-Addo, particularly in addressing an issue that has far-reaching consequences for the environment and the well-being of Ghanaians.
He urged the media to hold the president accountable for his pledge and to demand action on the issue of galamsey. Bless argued that the president’s inaction on the matter is a betrayal of the trust placed in him by the Ghanaian people.
Furthermore, Bless emphasized that the issue of galamsey is not just an environmental concern, but also a human rights issue.
He noted that the activities of illegal miners have led to the displacement of communities, the destruction of livelihoods, and the loss of lives. He called on the government to take immediate action to address the problem, including the deployment of military personnel to affected areas and the prosecution of those involved in illegal mining.
In conclusion, Bless reiterated his call for President Akufo-Addo’s resignation, citing his failure to address the issue of galamsey as a clear dereliction of duty.
He urged Ghanaians to demand more from their leaders and to hold them accountable for their actions.
