George Mireku Duker, Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources and MP, has criticized opinion leaders in Accra who are advocating for a ban on illegal mining, stating that living in the capital does not grant them a deeper understanding of the complexities involved.
His comments come in the wake of growing protests and an impending strike set for September 30, 2024, by Organized Labour if the government does not address the detrimental impact of illegal mining, or “galamsey,” on water bodies.
Speaking to community members during a campaign tour for NPP flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Duker asserted that those in Accra should not dictate decisions regarding mining activities in rural areas.
“If you live in Accra, it doesn’t mean you are wise. Do you think those of us in urban areas don’t understand what we are doing or the effects of mining on us?” Duker stated.
This backlash follows a previous declaration in which he suggested that advocates for a mining ban were misinformed.
In addressing calls for a ban on small-scale mining, the Deputy Minister emphasized that existing laws already prohibit illegal mining and advocated for stricter enforcement of these regulations.
Duker reaffirmed his commitment to protecting the interests of responsible small-scale miners and encouraged them to collaborate with the government to combat illegal mining and enhance the sector’s sustainability.
Small-scale Miners 4 Bawumia endorsed Dr. Bawumia and Hon. George Mireku Duker – MP, Tarkwa-Nsuaem. #Bawumia2024 #ItIsPossible #VoteNumber1 #ToLeadIsToSolve pic.twitter.com/5YiLYOXKo6
— NPP Projects Bureau (@BureauNpp) September 25, 2024
