Conviction of party officials in galamsey cases will deter illegal mining – Appiah-Danquah

Private legal practitioner and spokesperson for the United Party, Andrews Appiah-Danquah, has stated that the conviction of senior political figures implicated in illegal mining (galamsey) cases would serve as a powerful deterrent against the ongoing environmental crime.

Speaking on the JoyNews AM Show on Friday, April 24, Mr Appiah-Danquah emphasised that firm prosecution of influential individuals within political structures would significantly discourage both high-level actors and ordinary illegal miners from continuing their activities.

He argued that consistent enforcement of the law, particularly against politically exposed persons, would send a strong national message that illegal mining is unacceptable regardless of political affiliation, social status, or influence.

According to him, Ghana’s fight against galamsey cannot be effective unless accountability extends to senior figures believed to be involved in the practice. He insisted that selective enforcement weakens public confidence in the justice system and emboldens offenders.

Mr Appiah-Danquah also called on the President of Ghana to uphold the spirit of his constitutional oath by remaining committed to protecting the nation, enforcing the law, and prioritising the long-term well-being of citizens.

He urged what he described as a “relentless and uncompromising” approach to tackling illegal mining, arguing that failure to address alleged involvement of senior members of the opposition National Democratic Congress would significantly weaken the overall national effort against galamsey.

“If those at the top are not dealt with, then the fight becomes meaningless,” he suggested, adding that accountability must begin at the highest levels of political and administrative leadership.

He further warned that if decisive action is not taken, public frustration could grow to the point where similar political pressure witnessed in the past may resurface. He referenced previous calls for accountability directed at former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, suggesting that continued inaction could reignite demands for high-level resignations.

Mr Appiah-Danquah maintained that illegal mining remains one of Ghana’s most pressing national challenges and stressed that the credibility of the state’s response depends on impartial enforcement of the law.

He concluded that without firm political will and equal application of justice, efforts to curb galamsey will remain ineffective and public trust in governance institutions will continue to erode.