Small scale miners mount pressure on government to sack Mineral Commission CEO

Pressure is increasing on the government to remove Martin Kwaku Ayisi. He is the Chief Executive Officer of the Mineral Commission.

The National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association, Ghana (NCSSMAG) claims his actions have harmed land and water.

Michael Kwadwo Peprah, the Association's President, states that Mr. Ayisi has not provided effective solutions against illegal mining. He emphasizes that reforms at the Minerals Commission are crucial for this fight.

Here is the full press statement:

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association Calls for Dismissal of Minerals Commission CEO

The NCSSMAG, led by President Michael Kwadwo Peprah, urges His Excellency John Dramani Mahama to dismiss Mr. Martin Kwaku Ayisi immediately.

The Association believes Mr. Ayisi lacks commitment to combat illegal mining effectively. His leadership contradicts the government's vision for responsible small-scale mining.

Mr. Ayisi has granted leases allowing mining in forest reserves and river bodies. This undermines environmental reforms that the government aims to implement.

Under his leadership, practices similar to those of previous administrations continue. These practices have caused severe pollution and environmental degradation.

Retaining Mr. Ayisi as CEO threatens progress in reforming small-scale mining.

We call on the government to restructure the Minerals Commission with new leadership aligned with national goals.

It is essential that this new leadership prioritizes environmental protection and regulatory compliance while empowering small-scale miners responsibly.

Signed:

Michael Kwadwo Peprah
President
National Concerned Small Scale Miners Association, Ghana