Accra, June 21, 2025 — The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG) has issued a fiery warning to the government, demanding urgent and concrete action in the fight against illegal and irresponsible mining or risk a total collapse in public trust and environmental security.
In a strongly worded statement, the coalition of media houses, CSOs, professional bodies, and citizens acknowledged some progress under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration, but decried a lack of political will, especially in revoking Legislative Instrument (LI) 2462, which permits mining in forest reserves.
“It was not to be amended but scrapped entirely,” the GCAG stressed. “There is no indication it’s even on the order of business in Parliament. This is deliberate political foot-dragging.”
Security Failures, Police Complicity, and Forestry Attacks
The Coalition condemned the alleged complicity of police officers in shielding foreign nationals engaged in galamsey, citing a disturbing incident at Akomfere where Chinese miners were reportedly protected by law enforcement.
“The enforcement regime is leaking. We demand public disclosure of all police transfers from galamsey hotspots and prosecution of complicit officers,” the Coalition insisted.
Amid rising violence, including the June 5 assault on Dr. Hannah Bissiw at Bui Sobinso, GCAG reiterated its call for a state of emergency in illegal mining zones, military deployment, drone surveillance, and asset freezes.
“These galamsey areas are becoming mercenary training grounds,” the statement warned.
Forestry Officers at Risk, Politicians Implicated
The Coalition condemned growing attacks on Forestry Commission staff, even off duty, labelling it a “national embarrassment,” and demanded armed protection for officers guarding Ghana’s dwindling forest cover.
They also welcomed the recent arrest of a director of Akonta Mining Ltd, but called for the prosecution of all company directors and urged investigations into politically connected individuals allegedly involved in illegal mining, including MP Oscar Larbi and party executives from Axim and Dunkwa.
“This hypocrisy is unacceptable. The rule of law must prevail—regardless of political affiliation,” GCAG declared.
LI 2462: A Test of National Integrity
At the centre of GCAG’s demands is the total repeal of LI 2462, a legislative instrument they believe has become the legal cover for environmental devastation.
“If mining in forest reserves is truly ‘haram’ to this government, then it must prove it. Repeal LI 2462, arm our officers, and end the impunity,” the group charged.
A National Call to Action
In conclusion, the Coalition described the galamsey crisis as a test of Ghana’s leadership, accountability, and national survival.
“This is about trust. It’s about our future. God save our homeland, Ghana.”
The GCAG says it will continue to use every legal and civic tool available to ensure the government fulfills its promises and protects Ghana’s lands, rivers, and forests for generations to come.
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