‘Those involved in galamsey committing a grave injustice against Ghana’ — Methodist Presiding Bishop

The Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church Ghana, Most Reverend Dr. Paul Kwabena Boafo, has condemned those engaged in illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey, labeling their actions as a grave injustice to the nation.

“Those involved in this are committing a grave injustice against us as God’s people,” he stated.

His remarks were made during a church service in Accra on Sunday, October 6, to inaugurate the 67th Legal Year of the Judiciary.

Addressing members of the judiciary, Dr. Boafo emphasized the importance of protecting the environment and called on them to be champions of justice, fairness, and equity, especially in cases related to environmental degradation.

“When we are calling for environmental justice, we are calling for fairness and the best care for the environment that sustains us all… You should be champions of equity, justice, and fairness,” he urged the judiciary, highlighting their critical role in upholding the law and safeguarding the country’s natural resources.

Dr. Boafo expressed deep concern about the consequences of galamsey, which has led to severe environmental destruction, including polluted water bodies, deforestation, and loss of arable land.

He warned that the negative impact of these illegal activities would be felt for generations to come.

“The consequences of what we are doing to the environment have dire consequences on us,” he stated, underscoring the long-term damage caused by illegal mining.

He stressed that it is not just an environmental issue but a moral and social one as well, where the actions of a few undermine the wellbeing of the entire nation.

The Presiding Bishop further challenged the judiciary and all stakeholders to ensure that justice prevails in addressing the galamsey menace.

“Our role is to make sure we secure this nation while we seek to defend and protect the people and sustain the environment,” he said, pointing to the need for decisive action to restore and protect Ghana’s natural heritage.