Galamsey fight: Stop threatening govt with strike - Maxwell Mahama

Less than 24- hours following a threat by the Organised labour to lay down their tools if nothing meaningful is done by the government to stop the galamsey menace, a former Sunyani East Constituency Communication Director New Patriotic Party (NPP) voiced out personal concerns.

Mr. Maxwell Mahama has wholeheartedly endorsed Organised Labour's call to ensure the halting of illegal mining activities in the country, however, strongly against any strike action.

"I understand the Organised Labour's frustration with the government's handling of galamsey across the country, however, threatening a strike is not the most effective approach," Mr Mahama opined

"I'll urge the TUC to engage in constructive dialogue with the government to find lasting solutions to this environmental crisis before things get out of hand," he added.

Speaking to this reporter, Mr. Maxwell Mahama emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to combat illegal small-scale mining, rather than resorting to industrial action.

Background
A statement from the Trade Union Congress (TUC) is demanding government declare a state of emergency in all areas affected by illegal mining.

The group also called for a halt to all mining activities in forest reserves, the establishment of special courts to fast-track the prosecution of galamsey operators, and the deployment of the military to remove and destroy all mining equipment in affected areas.

TUC's General Secretary, Joshua Ansah stressed that the government’s failure to act swiftly and decisively on the galamsey menace has resulted in severe environmental degradation, including the destruction of rivers, farmlands, and forest reserves.