Kwabena Agyepong Accuses the NDC of Misusing Galamsey for Votes

Kwabena Agyepong, a senior advisor for Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s campaign, has asserted that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) is exploiting the illegal mining crisis, known as “galamsey,” as a political strategy to shift focus from their own lack of a coherent campaign message as the December 7 elections approach.

In a recent interview on October 7, 2024, Agyepong, a former General Secretary of the NPP, accused the NDC of deliberately highlighting the galamsey issue to undermine the Akufo-Addo administration as elections draw near.

He argued that the opposition is stoking public discontent against the government while acknowledging that the galamsey problem is significant.

Mr. Agyepong contended that the NPP has taken substantial steps to combat illegal mining through various initiatives, and he suggests that the NDC’s criticisms serve as a distraction from its own shortcomings during its time in power.

“If there are genuine concerns, there shouldn’t be chaos. Back then, those making noise were in this country—what has changed now, just 60 days before the elections?” he said, emphasizing the need for meaningful dialogue and engagement in affected areas instead of political theatrics.

Amid increasing calls from Organized Labour for the government to take stronger action against illegal mining, including demands for a state of emergency and threats of nationwide strikes, Agyepong pointed out that the NDC’s leader, John Dramani Mahama, has not proposed any actionable solutions to the galamsey issue.

He contrasted this with Dr. Bawumia’s clear plans for addressing the crisis.

The government is preparing to revoke certain mining regulations and reinforce its commitment to declaring water bodies and forest reserves as “Red Zones” for mining, aiming to enhance the legal framework against illegal operations.

Mr. Agyepong reiterated that the NPP is dedicated to effectively tackling galamsey, despite attempts by the opposition to politicize the situation.