Akufo-Addo was not serious about ending galamsey – Asuom Krontihene
Akyem Asuom Krontihene, Nana Boadi Amponim Obodade III has accused President Akufo-Addo’s government of failing to take a strong and genuine stand against illegal mining (galamsey) in the country. In an interview on GHOne TV with Lily Mohammed on Hard Talk; on January 17, 2025, Nana Obodade III shared his frustrations, detailing the personal sacrifices he made in his attempt to combat the destructive practice.
The Krontihene alleged that his efforts to curb illegal mining were nothing to write home about as it met resistance from both the mining community and governmental institutions.
He revealed that despite his best efforts, the political will to tackle galamsey appeared to be lacking.
He added that he petitioned various government agencies for support, but was disappointed to find that no substantial help came. But with the support of some soldiers from the Southern Command of the Army, Nana Obodade III’s team was able to arrest several Chinese nationals and their Ghanaian counterparts involved in illegal mining.
However, he alleged that the Chinese nationals were released shortly afterward, while he and the soldiers were accused of illegal activities.
“President Akufo Addo and his government were never really serious about ending galamsey. I did my best and I suffered a lot because of that. Whether they had documents or not, that was not their problem.
“I petitioned a lot of government agencies but there was no help. I went as far as the southern command and some soldiers volunteered to help us. They were able to arrest some Chinese and their Ghanaian counterparts. But as usual, the Chinese were rather set free, and the soldiers, together with myself, were labeled as armed robbers and sent to court”.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM/Deborah Amuzu
