Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, the President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has clarified that his statements about galamsey at the 28th GJA Awards and the association’s 75th-anniversary celebration in Accra were not to embarrass then President Akufo-Addo.
According to Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, he seized the opportunity for the president to openly address the nation’s concerns about the galamsey.
He boldly asserted that his comments were factual and rooted in the general public.
The GJA president noted that he was not surprised by the former president’s reaction.
Speaking on Morning Starr, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour stated, “You have discharged your duty dutifully in all other areas, but we feel that you are failing us in this area; this was the fact”.
“I didn’t make such a statement to embarrass the president or to his greater president, I was only speaking the truth. I felt that it was an opportunity for us to share some of this concern before him,” he stressed.
It will be recalled that Albert Kwabena Dwumfour found himself in an awkward situation with President Akufo-Addo following his speech on illegal mining.
Dwumfour urged the president to fulfil his promise to put his presidency on the line to combat illegal mining before leaving office.
“Mr President, remember you said you would put your presidency on the line to fight illegal mining “.
During the 28th GJA Media Awards, Dwumfour made a strong call for immediate action against illegal mining, commonly referred to as “Galamsey.” His remarks come amidst alarming reports of young men engaging in Galamsey activities, which have devastating effects on agriculture and local ecosystems.
The tension between Dwumfour and President Akufo-Addo was palpable during the event, as the president appeared displeased with the GJA president’s assertions. Observers noted the discomfort in the room.
