The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has called on the Ghana Bar Association (GBA), the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), and other professional bodies to stand firm in their opposition to illegal mining activities, which are wreaking havoc on major water bodies and the environment.
His appeal comes in response to recent statements from UTAG, GMA, and GBA condemning illegal mining and advocating for a ban on both small-scale and illegal mining practices. Otumfuo Osei Tutu II commended the President of the Ghana Bar Association for his courageous stance against illegal mining and urged leaders of other influential organizations to take similar decisive action.
The Asantehene highlighted the severe environmental threat posed by illegal mining and questioned the effectiveness of the legal system in addressing individuals who pollute water bodies. “Galamsey is an environmental enemy for the nation. What could be more serious for any people than to have the entire water supply system at risk?” he stated. He suggested that legal professionals use their platforms to address the crisis, proposing the establishment of a panel during their conference to investigate affected communities and deliberate on legal responses.
Otumfuo Osei Tutu II pointed out the disparity in legal consequences for individuals who poison water supplies with harmful substances such as mercury, which is used in illegal mining. He urged for a unified approach to tackle this pressing issue. “If an individual poisoned the water supply of a community, he would face severe consequences under the law. So why should the law be any different when someone deliberately pollutes the same water with mercury, knowing it can kill?” he questioned. “This issue now requires the collective effort of all sections of society. To do nothing is no longer an option. The Bar Association, the medical association, and the university should collaborate to address this emergency.”
During a recent visit to Cape Coast, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II shared a disturbing personal observation of the severe pollution affecting the River Pra, describing the situation as both troubling and embarrassing. “While traveling to Cape Coast, I stopped at the River Pra and what I saw was deeply embarrassing. If as a nation, we allow such environmental degradation to occur, we must commit ourselves to fighting this issue with all available resources,” he said.
The Asantehene’s comments underscore the urgent need for a unified and proactive response to the illegal mining crisis. His call for action reflects growing concerns about the long-term impact of illegal mining on Ghana’s environment and natural resources. As Ghana faces this critical challenge, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II’s appeal serves as a reminder of the role that professional organizations and the legal system must play in addressing and mitigating the effects of illegal mining activities.
In summary, the Asantehene has urged all professional bodies to unite in combating illegal mining, emphasizing the environmental and societal stakes involved. The call to action is a crucial step in mobilizing collective efforts to preserve Ghana’s water bodies and environment for future generations.
