NPP Member Calls for Traditional Leaders’ Involvement in Fight Against Galamsey
Bugase cited recent actions taken by some traditional rulers, such as the Asantehene's decision to destool several chiefs involved in galamsey, as evidence of their potential impact.
Francis Bugase, a member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communications Team for the Chiana-Paga Constituency, has emphasized the need for traditional authorities to play a crucial role in combating illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey,” in Ghana.
Speaking on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Friday March 28, 2025, Bugase cited recent actions taken by some traditional rulers, such as the Asantehene’s decision to destool several chiefs involved in galamsey, as evidence of their potential impact.
“Look at what the Asantehene is doing; he destooled more than two chiefs in 2024, and this year, another chief has been destoolede. We should encourage such efforts and use our traditional authorities to fight the menace.” He said.
Bugase criticized the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration, led by President John Mahama, for failing to fulfill its campaign promise to end illegal mining.
“You told Ghanaians that the NPP government was engineering illegal mining in our forest reserves and that when you came to power, you would put an end to it,” he said.
He urged the government to take decisive action against galamsey to ensure sustainable development and protect the country’s natural resources.
“We expect to see that here and now—not what the NPP did. The NPP was voted out because you claimed illegal mining was not properly managed by the party.”
Galamsey has been a persistent issue in Ghana, with severe environmental and economic consequences. The practice, which involves illegal small-scale mining, has been linked to deforestation, water pollution, and loss of livelihoods for local communities.
Efforts to combat galamsey have been ongoing, including the launch of Operation Halt and Operation Halt II by the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources. However, the involvement of traditional authorities is seen as crucial in addressing the root causes of the issue and promoting sustainable development.
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