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.

Richard Ahiagbah, NPP's Director of Communications, spoke at a press conference on March 26, 2025. 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 about the destruction caused by galamsey activities. They warned that all forest reserves could be lost if this continues. “This should cause a shiver down your spine,” they said.

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

**Call for Action**

The NPP urged the government to take action against illegal mining. 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 over mining applications in forest reserves. Ahiagbah called this a token gesture that does not stop mining there.

He insisted on completely repealing the law to enforce a total ban on forest mining. 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 suspicion for corruption during their tenures. The Attorney General held a press conference last Monday to discuss ongoing investigations and named some individuals involved.

The NPP criticized this approach as damaging to civil and human rights. While they support accountability for public servants, they oppose trying individuals in media rather than courts.

They labeled this as persecution instead of prosecution and questioned Mahama’s commitment to fighting corruption, citing cases where NDC members were freed from trials through nolle prosequi filings.