Osagyefo Oseadeyo Agyemang Badu II, President of the Bono Regional House of Chiefs, has issued a stern warning to the government to halt illegal mining, known as Galamsey, within one month.
The Dormaahene and High Court Judge emphasized that failure to act would prompt the chiefs to take matters into their own hands and reclaim their lands.
He issued the ultimatum during a courtesy call by National Democratic Congress (NDC) flagbearer John Dramani Mahama as part of his campaign tour of the region.
Osagyefo Oseadeyo Agyemang Badu II demanded that the government deploy police and soldiers to forests to stop Galamsey activities.
He emphasized that the land belongs to the chiefs and they will not allow mining to continue if the government fails to act.
The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has also joined the chorus, calling for an immediate ban on gold prospecting in sensitive areas.
In a statement signed by nine UTAG presidents, the association demanded a total ban on Galamsey, citing its devastating effects.
Meanwhile, the Ghana Bar Association (GBA) has criticized the government’s handling of the illegal mining crisis, stating that things are getting worse.
The GBA condemned the politicization of the issue, describing it as irresponsible, shocking, and regrettable.
The GBA’s verdict adds to the mounting pressure on the government to take decisive action against Galamsey and protect the country’s environment and resources.
