Politicians from all NPP, NDC are directly benefiting from galamsey – Ken Agyapong

The Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central, Hon. Kennedy Ohene Agyapong has shared his thoughts on why illegal mining, otherwise known as galamsey has become difficult to fight.

According to him, this is because politicians from both the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) are benefiting from galamsey.

In a post on social media, Ken Agyapong said this makes the many people engaged in galamsey on the grounds bold to engage in the destructive illegal act.

“The only way we can put an end to the Galamsey menace in this country is if all politicians, regardless of party affiliation; whether NPP, NDC, or any other—come together and declare, 'Enough is enough!' But the truth is, many politicians are staying silent on this issue because they themselves are involved.

“I can boldly tell you that some of our politicians from all sides are directly benefiting from Galamsey. This emboldens the people on the ground, because they know their bosses are politicians who protect them, so they feel untouchable,” Ken Agyapong said in a post on X.

The Member of Parliament in his post bemoaned how illegal miners have no respect for authority because they believe their political connections shield them.

He said if the country wants to stop galamsey for good, there must be a collaboration with chiefs because some of them are complicit as well.

“While I know not all chiefs are involved, many have a hand in this illegal activity. Until we all—politicians, chiefs, and citizens alike; take responsibility and say 'no more,' our water bodies will continue to be destroyed, and our future compromised,” Ken Agyapong said.