From Devastation To Restoration: Why The NPP Must Remain In Opposition

The NDC government, under President John Dramani Mahama, is demonstrating true leadership by amending L.I 2462 to end the President’s power to grant mining licenses in forest reserves. This, along with revoking all small-scale mining licenses issued after December 7, 2024, is a decisive response to the environmental destruction enabled by the previous NPP administration.
During the Akufo-Addo and Bawumia regime, illegal mining (galamsey) spiralled out of control, with top NPP officials actively involved. The Ashanti Regional Chairman’s ownership of Aconta Mines is a glaring example of how political influence was used to secure mining permits, leading to widespread deforestation and pollution of water bodies. Farmers, particularly cocoa growers, suffered immensely, with many being coerced into selling their farms to miners.
The NPP’s careless importation of mining equipment further exacerbated environmental damage. Instead of implementing regulations to protect water bodies and forests, the NPP empowered its party loyalists to exploit resources for personal gain, undermining Ghana’s agricultural productivity and economic stability.
The NDC, on the other hand, is drawing from international best practices employed by countries like Canada, Bolivia, and Norway. These nations have successfully adopted cooperative mining models involving local communities in decision-making. Such an approach ensures economic equity and sustainable resource management, principles the NDC is now integrating into its mining reforms.
By establishing a Technical Committee to audit mining operations, the NDC is reinforcing transparency, accountability, and environmental justice. Its policies are in harmony with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which emphasize environmental sustainability, climate action, and ethical governance.