This article was first published in June 2021
John Boadu, the General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), erupted in anger during a live radio show after receiving a text accusing him of being a kingpin in illegal small-scale mining, known locally as galamsey. Boadu, clearly agitated, addressed the allegations on Accra-based Neat FM, insisting he has no affiliations with any mining operations.
In a heated exchange, he challenged the claims while referring to biblical teachings to emphasize his point. “If you believe I have a galamsey site, call the Operation Halt taskforce to inspect it and destroy my equipment,” he asserted. Boadu expressed frustration at the ongoing accusations, stating that despite his attempts to clarify his position, misinformation persists.
“It’s infuriating that people continue to label me a galamsey kingpin,” he lamented. “Even the Bible says sometimes you must tell the fool they are foolish to stop their foolishness.”
Boadu further articulated his perspective on illegal mining, clarifying that mining itself isn’t illegal if done correctly. “There are small-scale miners who operate legally, but you can also find large companies that engage in wrongful practices. I don’t see a problem with proper mining practices, but I want to make it clear that I have no involvement in this sector,” he explained.
His remarks come amidst rising tensions within the party, with Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong alleging that many prominent members of the NPP are heavily involved in illegal mining activities. Agyapong claimed to have a list of companies owned by influential figures in both the NPP and NDC, hinting at a deeper issue affecting the government’s fight against illegal mining.
Boadu’s outburst reflects a broader concern about the reputation of political figures in relation to the ongoing galamsey crisis, which continues to garner significant attention in Ghana.
