Franklin Cudjoe, the founder and President of IMANI Africa, has launched a scathing critique of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s decision to deploy military personnel to tackle illegal mining activities, commonly referred to as galamsey. Cudjoe’s comments come in the wake of the government’s renewed efforts to combat the rampant galamsey crisis, which has plagued Ghana for years.
On Thursday, October 10, the government deployed over 100 armed military personnel to various water bodies across the country, aiming to clamp down on illegal mining operations that have severely impacted the environment and local communities. However, Cudjoe has expressed skepticism regarding the efficacy of such measures, citing the significant financial resources already spent by the government on similar operations without achieving any meaningful results.
In an interview on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, October 12, Cudjoe characterized the military deployment as a mere “game of tricks, smokes and mirrors.” He argued that any serious effort to address the galamsey issue would not involve sending military personnel to carry out operations that have proven ineffective in the past. “This [The deployment] is like a game of tricks, smokes and mirrors. Any serious person wanting to deal with this matter [galamsey] immediately will not send these advanced militia people to go and do what they are doing there. Have we not seen that before?” he questioned.
Cudjoe further criticized the government’s calls for collective action to combat galamsey, expressing frustration at the disconnect between the government’s rhetoric and the reality on the ground. “Almost 70 percent of your rivers are bloodened, and you are here doing two steps forward, four steps backward, and we are clapping that they have started doing something. I don’t even know why we are applauding the deployment as if it was gifted,” he lamented.
The IMANI Africa president also expressed his dissatisfaction with the government’s appeal for community involvement in the fight against galamsey. He recalled how the government solicited votes from citizens during the election campaign, pledging to take significant action against illegal mining. “You came to me to beg for votes and even said you would put your presidency on the line, and now you are telling me to come together. Why is it community labor?” he questioned, emphasizing the inconsistency in the government’s messaging.
Cudjoe’s remarks highlight a growing frustration among citizens regarding the government’s handling of the galamsey crisis. Illegal mining has led to widespread environmental degradation, polluted water sources, and health issues in affected communities. Despite previous promises to take decisive action, many Ghanaians feel that the government’s efforts have fallen short.
The deployment of military personnel is seen by some as a desperate measure to address an ongoing crisis that requires comprehensive solutions rather than temporary fixes. Cudjoe’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among critics who argue that without addressing the root causes of galamsey, including poverty, unemployment, and lack of regulation in the mining sector, military interventions are unlikely to yield lasting results.
In addition to his critique of the government’s military approach, Cudjoe pointed out that if President Akufo-Addo was genuinely committed to tackling the galamsey issue, he would have taken more concrete steps during his last meeting with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA). “If this president was minded to deal with this matter, he would have stated it the last time he met with the GJA, but he just read his speech and left,” he remarked.
The situation surrounding illegal mining in Ghana has become increasingly urgent, with various stakeholders calling for immediate and effective action to restore the integrity of the country’s natural resources. While the deployment of military personnel may be a response to growing public concern, experts like Cudjoe argue that it is essential to adopt a more holistic approach that involves sustainable development, community engagement, and regulatory reforms.
As the galamsey crisis continues to unfold, the government’s strategies and responses will be under close scrutiny from both the public and advocacy groups. The effectiveness of military deployments in addressing illegal mining will likely be a contentious topic as stakeholders evaluate the best path forward for Ghana’s environmental and economic health.
Cudjoe’s comments serve as a reminder of the challenges facing the Akufo-Addo administration in dealing with a complex issue that has significant social, economic, and environmental implications. As the country grapples with the consequences of illegal mining, the call for genuine and effective leadership becomes ever more critical.
In conclusion, Franklin Cudjoe’s criticism of President Akufo-Addo’s military deployment against galamsey underscores the frustrations of many Ghanaians who seek real solutions to the ongoing crisis. With the stakes high and the environment at risk, the government must find a way to balance military action with sustainable and inclusive approaches to combat illegal mining in the country. Only through concerted efforts and genuine commitment can Ghana hope to address the challenges posed by galamsey effectively.
