Mr. Adu Gyamfi, the Ashanti Regional Secretary of the Small-Scale Miners Association, has strongly criticized Professor Stephen Adei over his assertion that the establishment of the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) was intended to legitimize illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey.
Speaking to an audience in a video widely circulated on social media, Professor Adei accused the then-government of effectively legalizing the destructive practice under the guise of the newly established state entity.
“The politicians, the chiefs, and the security agents are responsible for polluting the entire water sources in Ghana. They have a way of making it look acceptable. For example, the current government, which in many ways is doing well, has legalized galamsey. GoldBod is essentially the legalisation of galamsey,” Professor Adei stated.
Reacting to these remarks, Mr. Adu Gyamfi described the Professor’s commentary as ignorant and asserted that such a person of his calibre should “bow his head in shame.”
Mr. Gyamfi contended that it is unfortunate for a distinguished individual to make such a comment.
He pointed out that illegal mining (galamsey) predates the establishment of GoldBod, rendering the Professor’s claim illogical.
“When people make these reckless comments, I laugh. Anyone who says that exposes their ignorance and lack of appreciation about these issues. When was GoldBod established? When did galamsey start in Ghana? When we approach the issue this way, we expose ourselves. If this is not for political purposes, what else is it?” Mr. Gyamfi questioned.
He emphasised that illegal mining has existed for years, whereas GoldBod was only established a few months ago. Furthermore, he stated that the state entity’s establishment is precisely intended to ensure sanity and better regulation within the gold sector.
Mr. Gyamfi argued that the current administration has demonstrated a commitment to combating illegal gold trade and promoting licensed small-scale mining. He urged the public to support the government’s efforts.
“We have to implement existing laws on dealing with illegal miners and not make reckless remarks about small-scale miners. When licenses are given to small-scale miners, they are not granted permission to mine in reserves or water bodies. We should therefore take concrete steps in dealing with those lawless individuals instead of constantly attacking licensed miners who are operating within the confines of the law,” he added.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
