The Minority has accused the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) of gross hypocrisy and failure in tackling the growing illegal mining crisis, commonly referred to as ‘galamsey.’

Describing the situation as a “full-blown national emergency,” the Minority called for an end to what it termed “fancy stunts” and demanded concrete action to save Ghana’s environment.

In a press release signed by Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, Ranking Member on the Lands and Natural Resources Committee, on Wednesday, July 23, the Minority accused the NDC of betraying its promises and presiding over an even worse galamsey epidemic just six months into office.

“The government was handed GHC 50 million in the 2025 budget to combat illegal mining – five times what was allocated under the NPP in 2024 – yet the public sees only token gestures with no real action,” the statement read.

The Minority further alleged that illegal mining is thriving in President John Dramani Mahama’s own hometown of Bole Bamboi, specifically in Tumtumba, where the Yonkamba stream, a vital tributary of the Black Volta, has been destroyed.

“If the President cannot safeguard the natural resources of his own backyard, what hope is there for the rest of the country?” the statement questioned, accusing the NDC of hijacking galamsey sites for political and personal gain.

The release also cited growing public discontent and referenced strong criticisms from key institutions including the Trades Union Congress (TUC) and the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG). Both groups have condemned the government’s response as weak and complicit, with UTAG even threatening strike action if their demands—such as a state of emergency declaration and prosecution of complicit officials—are not met.

The Minority warned that journalists exposing illegal mining activities, such as Erastus Asare Donkor, are being ignored despite credible evidence of environmental degradation and political interference in enforcement.

The statement highlighted the alarming rise in public health issues in galamsey-affected areas, adding, “Neurologists are warning of increased gallbladder-related conditions linked to polluted water. This is no longer just an environmental issue; it’s a public health crisis.”

The NDC government’s much-publicised anti-galamsey campaign, including the “Goldbod” initiative, was also dismissed by the Minority as a “monumental scam,” with allegations that gold being procured under the programme is sourced directly from illegal mining operations.