Akufo-Addo’s govt has not failed in galamsey fight – Vincent Assafuah

The Deputy Minister-Designate for Local Government, Decentralisation, and Rural Development, Vincent Ekow Assafuah, has dismissed claims suggesting that President Akufo-Addo has failed to eradicate illegal mining.

The Old-Tafo legislator during his vetting by the Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, March 11, 2024, explained that the current administration has adopted practical ways to curb illegal mining commonly known as ‘galamsey’.

“That cannot be an acceptable position. I do not agree with any assertions that there’s a failure on the part of the government as far as ‘Galamsey’ is concerned. In 2017, the President [Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo] had to put his job on the line.

“There have been some pragmatic steps taken by the government to deal with the menace. We all know about the review of the Minerals Act whereby there have been stiffer punishments for persons found culpable of engaging in ‘galamsey’ under this government.”

While acknowledging the difficulties associated with the ‘galamsey’ battle, he pledged to collaborate with his minister to address the issue.

“I agree there might be some challenges, however, what I intend to do is study the issues that surround ‘galamsey’ menace, and I will engage with my minister in solving it,” he added.