The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has issued a firm ultimatum to President John Dramani Mahama to honor his pre-election commitment to tackle illegal mining, commonly known as galamsey.
The association cautioned that failure to take decisive action could lead to industrial action.
Following an urgent meeting of its National Executive Council (NEC) on Thursday, July 17, UTAG expressed serious concern about the government’s slow progress in curbing illegal mining activities, despite some modest successes by security forces.
UTAG reminded the public that ahead of the 2024 general elections, President Mahama signed the National Pledge Against Illegal and Irresponsible Mining, a commitment witnessed by UTAG and the Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey (GCAG).
The association outlined that some pledges by the President represent a solemn social contract with the Ghanaian populace, a contract that remains largely unfulfilled.
The statement reiterated “The President pledged to rein in party officials, communicators, and all persons affiliated with his political party, and to ensure they refrain from making any statements or taking actions that indirectly support or encourage illegal mining.
“There was a promise by the President to dismiss Metropolitan, Municipal or District Chief Executives who entertain galamsey in their areas and yet, no single one of them has been sacked despite galamsey still ravaging, especially in the Ashanti, Eastern, Western and Ahafo regions among others.
Key members of the ruling party and government in these areas where galamsey remains highly active are allegedly involved with no concrete actions taken to arrest and prosecute them,” the statement added.
While acknowledging that the Attorney General has instructed the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to probe allegations of political involvement in illegal mining, UTAG stressed that this action alone is insufficient.
The association called for more comprehensive and coordinated efforts to completely eliminate the galamsey threat.
UTAG urged President Mahama to fulfill other campaign promises, including repealing Legislative Instrument (L.I.) 2462 and declaring a state of emergency in regions severely affected by illegal mining.
The statement emphasized “UTAG expects the President to fulfil his pledges with urgency and transparency. If concrete steps are not taken promptly, UTAG will not hesitate to activate all constitutionally permitted avenues including industrial action to demand the fulfilment of these national commitments.
The association appealed to its members and the general public to stay vigilant and united in protecting Ghana’s environment for the benefit of future generations.
“We urge our members and the broader public to remain vigilant and united in protecting our environment for future generations. The time for rhetoric is over; the time for action is now.”
Source :www.kumasimail.com /Kwadwo Owusu
