Galamsey has worsened underMahama-NPP

**NPP Claims Illegal Mining Has Worsened**

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) says illegal mining, or galamsey, has worsened in three months. They claim the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and John Dramani Mahama have failed to address this issue.

At a press conference on March 26, 2025, Richard Ahiagbah, NPP's Director of Communications, spoke about the problem. He accused the NDC of being complicit in the rise of illegal mining. He stated that they campaigned in galamsey areas with hidden promises.

**Concerns Over Forest Reserves**

The NPP expressed concern over the destruction caused by galamsey activities. They warned that all forest reserves could be lost if this continues. “We risk losing all our forest cover,” they said.

The party condemned alleged NDC members for blocking taskforces from protecting forests and water bodies from illegal miners.

**Call for Action**

The NPP urged the government to take action to regain control over forests and water bodies. They reminded President Mahama of his promise to revoke LI-2462 but criticized him for not following through.

Instead of revoking it, the government proposed amendments that limit presidential powers regarding mining applications in forest reserves. Ahiagbah called this a token gesture that does not stop mining there.

He insisted on a complete repeal of the law to ensure a total ban on mining in forests. He encouraged citizens to engage actively in protecting their environment and rights.

**Accusations Against Mahama Government**

The NPP also accused Mahama's government of persecuting former appointees from their administration. They were surprised by Attorney General Dr Dominic Ayine’s media statements about former officials without formal charges.

Several former officials are under scrutiny for suspected corruption during their tenures. The Attorney General held a press conference last Monday to discuss ongoing investigations and persons of interest.

The NPP criticized announcing guilt before formal charges as an infringement on civil rights. While they support accountability for public servants, they oppose violations of democratic rights.

They denounced what they see as a strategy by Mahama’s administration to try individuals in media rather than courts, calling it persecution instead of prosecution. The opposition party questioned Mahama's commitment to fighting corruption after dropping charges against some NDC members facing trials.