By GhanaNewsPage 
Renowned Ghanaian broadcaster Kwami Sefa Kayi has provided insights into President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s perceived silence on the pressing issue of illegal mining, commonly known as “galamsey.” According to Sefa Kayi, the President’s lack of decisive action might be attributed to political calculations, particularly as the 2024 elections approach. Sefa Kayi suggested that the fear of losing political support, especially in areas where galamsey serves as a livelihood for many, might be influencing the President’s cautious approach to the matter.
Sefa Kayi highlighted that while Akufo-Addo has the power to enforce stricter measures against illegal mining, his experience in the 2020 election, which was closely contested, might have left him reluctant to take firm action. The broadcaster noted that, at the end of the day, every politician, including the President, is focused on securing victory for their political party. Galamsey, despite its destructive impact on the environment, holds significant economic importance for communities, making it politically risky to clamp down on the practice ahead of an election.
This situation is further complicated by the fact that galamsey affects vast sections of the population, particularly in rural areas where entire communities depend on it for survival. A government crackdown could alienate these voters, which would potentially harm the ruling party’s electoral prospects. Sefa Kayi’s commentary implies that the President may be choosing to tread carefully to avoid backlash from these communities.
Moreover, the issue has drawn increased attention, particularly after the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, recently took action by destooling several chiefs involved in illegal mining activities in the Ashanti Region. Sefa Kayi, while praising Otumfuo’s decisive move, questioned why the President had not shown similar resolve. He mentioned that the President, with access to state investigative bodies such as the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI), could have acted more assertively, much like Otumfuo did.
Sefa Kayi’s critique does not suggest that the President condones galamsey but points to the complexities of balancing political expediency with law enforcement. The fight against illegal mining remains one of the most pressing environmental issues in Ghana, with its devastating impact on water bodies, farmlands, and the ecosystem at large. Nonetheless, the broadcaster emphasized that from a political standpoint, addressing this issue too aggressively could jeopardize the President’s chances of retaining power in future elections.
This analysis highlights the broader challenges faced by politicians who must navigate socio-economic factors while trying to enforce laws that may be unpopular with certain segments of the electorate. While many Ghanaians remain concerned about the environmental damage caused by galamsey, Sefa Kayi’s remarks shed light on why the government’s response might appear restrained as elections loom closer.