Ken Edem Ashigbi, the convener of the Media Coalition against Galamsey, has publicly lauded the Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, following his recent remarks regarding illegal mining practices.
The commendation from Ashigbi comes subsequent to the minister’s directive to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Christian Tetteh Yohuno, instructing the immediate replacement of all divisional, district, and regional commanders stationed in mining communities.
Expressing his support for this move, Ashigbi expressed confidence that the current commanders are either involved in the illicit activity or are incapable of effectively addressing the situation.
In a video shared by Ashigbi, he was heard saying, “To God be the glory. These ones being transferred are either complicit or incompetent. Minister, you would live long.”
This directive marks another strategic effort by the government to combat the persistent issue of illegal mining, commonly referred to as galamsey, which has plagued the nation for years.
Minister Muntaka justified his decision by stating that the current commanders have become complacent during their prolonged tenures in these positions.
It’s widely believed that these commanders have turned a blind eye to the illegal activities, rendering them ineffective in combating the menace.
The minister emphasized that the newly appointed commanders in the mining areas must demonstrate a fresh approach to addressing the issue. If, after three months, they fail to show dedication and effectiveness, they will be promptly replaced.
Speaking at an event with Imams and Zongo chiefs in Kumasi, in the Ashanti Region, Minister Muntaka reiterated his determination to make necessary changes until significant progress is seen.
The statements by the Member of Parliament for the Asawase constituency come in response to reports of a police commander releasing arrested illegal miners.
Additionally, this directive aligns with the demands made by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) specializing in environmental conservation, spearheaded by A Rocha Ghana.
During a press conference on Friday, March 7, 2025, the coalition called for the immediate replacement of the leadership in the Eastern Region, accusing them of failing to effectively combat illegal mining activities.
The joint statement, endorsed by A Rocha Ghana, Kasa Initiative Ghana, Nature and Development Foundation, and Concerned Citizens of Atewa Landscape, singled out the Eastern South Police Commander DCOP George Boadi Bossman and Divisional Police Commander ACP Reynolds Sam for their ineffectiveness in enforcing anti-illegal mining laws.
Furthermore, the group urged the government to dismiss the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Minerals Commission, George Kwaku Ayisi, over allegations of facilitating an excessive issuance of mining licenses, contributing to destructive mining practices in water bodies and forest reserves.