Dr Ken Ashigbey, the founder of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining, has lauded the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for his unwavering leadership in the battle against illegal mining, commonly referred to as “galamsey.”
In a recent discussion on Joy News’ PM Express, Dr. Ashigbey emphasized that the Asantehene’s actions are setting a powerful example for the entire nation as the fight against Galamsey is yet to yield the needed results with many water bodies polluted in the country.
Dr. Ashigbey pointed out the Asantehene’s recent efforts to hold traditional leaders accountable for their roles in perpetuating illegal mining. He commended the monarch for not only speaking out against galamsey but also taking concrete steps to address the issue within his jurisdiction. This approach, according to Dr. Ashigbey, is crucial in the fight against the environmental and social impacts of illegal mining.
The Asantehene’s stance is particularly significant because it signals a shift in how traditional leadership can influence national issues. By demanding accountability and actively working to eliminate galamsey, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II is providing a blueprint for other leaders to follow. Dr. Ashigbey lauded the overlord of the Ashanti kingdom “There is only one leader in this country who is doing what needs to be done — Otumfuo Osei Tutu II,” Dr. Ashigbey said.
Dr Ken Ashigbey ‘s Comments on Fight Against Illegal Mining (Galamsey) by Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II
He has shown true leadership by taking action against three of his chiefs who were involved in illegal mining. He didn’t just stop there; he utilised our traditional judicial system, found them guilty, and punished them.
When you juxtapose what Otumfuo has done with the government’s response, it is clear who is serious about stopping galamsey. The Asantehene has set an example, and if more leaders follow his lead, we can begin to see real change.
The Minister for Lands and Natural Resources pronounced Akonta Mining as being involved in illegality, and Joy News’ Erastus Asare Donkor provided ample evidence to support this. But what did we see? The President sat at a Catholic priests conference and said the company was not involved in illegality. When a king like Otumfuo sees his people engaged in wrongdoing and acts decisively, others will stop.
To address the illegal mining crisis, Dr. Ashigbey called for a united effort and urged all political parties to rally around the President to tackle the issue head-on. We cannot wait until the next election. We need to focus on preserving our water bodies and environment now. The President, former President John Mahama, and Vice President Dr Bawumia must come together and make this a national priority, he remarked.
