The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has reaffirmed its commitment to embark on a strike action against illegal and irresponsible mining, scheduled to take place on October 10. Thomas Musah, the General Secretary of GNAT, made this clear in an exclusive interview with Citi News’ Jude Duncan in Accra.
Musah’s statement comes on the heels of a recent meeting between Organised Labour and President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, where the President pleaded with Organised Labour to be patient with his government as they work to find a lasting solution to the menace of galamsey.
However, Musah emphasized that despite the meeting, GNAT and Organised Labour remain resolute in their demands.
The group is seeking drastic measures to curb the illicit mining activities, including declaring a state of emergency in all mining areas, revoking certain environmental regulations, withdrawing licenses for mining in forest reserves, and establishing special courts to prosecute perpetrators.
Musah stressed that the decision to protest and strike is a matter of life and death, questioning the notion of “more time” when people are dying due to the effects of galamsey.
He pointed out that the patience of GNAT and Organised Labour has worn thin, and they can no longer wait for the government to take action.
“What’s the definition of more time, with the people dying, what will happen to them? It is for us to make a decision, it is between life and death,” Musah said.
He reiterated that GNAT stands by Organised Labour’s demands and will proceed with the planned strike action.
The strike action is aimed at pressuring the government to take concrete steps to address the devastating impact of galamsey on the environment, healthcare, and the economy. GNAT and Organised Labour have been vocal about their concerns, citing the destruction of water bodies, forests, and communities due to illegal mining activities.
Musah’s stance suggests that the government’s assurances are no longer sufficient, and tangible action is required. The planned strike and protest are intended to bring attention to the urgency of the issue and push the government to prioritize the welfare of Ghanaians over the interests of illegal miners.
As the October 10 strike date approaches, GNAT and Organised Labour are expected to mobilize their members and allies to participate in the protest.
The outcome of this action will likely have significant implications for the government’s handling of the galamsey menace and its relationship with Organised Labour.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the effectiveness of GNAT’s strike action and the government’s response to the demands of Organised Labour. One thing is clear:
GNAT and Organised Labour will no longer wait patiently for the government to address the issue of galamsey.
