Nana Ayew Afriye, MP for Effiduase/Asokore, accuses the NDC of importing foreign nationals to conduct illegal mining on Ghana’s river bodies. He claims this is an attempt to destabilize pro-NPP areas in anticipation of elections, as NPP surveys suggest potential electoral gains. The MP insists on a clear distinction between legal small-scale mining and the allegedly illegal activities of these foreign operatives, affirming the government’s commitment to combatting illegal mining while protecting legitimate miners.
Nana Ayew Afriye, the Member of Parliament for Effiduase/Asokore in the Ashanti Region, has leveled serious allegations against the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) regarding the degradation of river bodies in Ghana. He claims that the NDC is engaging in a strategy to undermine the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) by importing foreign nationals from Togo and Burkina Faso to participate in illicit mining practices, commonly referred to as ‘galamsey’, particularly in areas known for their pro-NPP stance. During a recent campaign event captured on video and broadcast by GHOne TV, Mr. Afriye articulated his belief that the NDC’s actions stem from a fear of losing constituencies to the NPP in upcoming elections. He cited recent research indicating that a hypothetical vote could yield an additional 18 parliamentary seats for the NPP, which he posits has prompted the NDC to instigate chaos in Accra. Mr. Afriye was emphatic in differentiating between legitimate small-scale mining operations and the illegal activities conducted by the foreign nationals allegedly brought in by the NDC. He asserted, “Small-scale mining is different from what the Togolese and Burkinabes that the NDC has imported into the country to mine” and expressed his commitment to combating illegal mining on water bodies while supporting lawful small-scale miners. The MP also announced ongoing operations aimed at eradicating these illegal mining activities that he attributes to perceived political machinations. He stated, “They saw that we were winning the seats in the mining areas, so they decided to go and import foreigners to mine on our river bodies.” Furthermore, he warned against opposition forces attempting to create turmoil as the elections approach, reiterating the NPP’s determination to maintain its course in the fight against illegal mining practices.
The topic centers around the contentious issue of illegal mining, commonly termed ‘galamsey’, which has been a persistent problem in Ghana. Recent events have escalated public discourse regarding the impacts of such activities on the environment, particularly concerning river bodies. The ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) have continuously exchanged accusations over the handling of this issue, which has significant social and political ramifications. With the approach of elections, both parties are eager to secure voter confidence by addressing illegal mining, underscoring the urgency of governmental action against environmental degradation caused by these activities.
In summary, Nana Ayew Afriye’s statements reflect the NPP’s allegations against the NDC regarding the importation of foreign miners to engage in illegal activities as a means to disrupt their political standing. The commitment to halting illegal mining while allowing legitimate operations sets a critical agenda for the NPP as the nation approaches elections, amidst heightened public scrutiny over environmental issues related to mining practices.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
