Kofi Akpaloo, the flagbearer of the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), has urged Organised Labour to reconsider its planned nationwide strike, scheduled to begin on October 10, 2024. The strike is in response to the government’s failure to address the issue of galamsey, or illegal mining, which has severe environmental consequences.
Organised Labour has expressed disappointment over the government’s inaction and is demanding a declaration of a state of emergency, revocation of L.I. 2462, and military deployment to forest areas and water bodies to curb the destruction.
However, Akpaloo believes the timing of the strike is ill-advised, given the upcoming elections. He suggests that the labour unions should engage in dialogue with the government to find a resolution rather than taking drastic actions.
In an interview with Citi News, Akpaloo emphasized his concerns, stating, “Two months to an election and you are leading this, then it means you just want the government to go.” He expressed his desire to become president through positive means, not by capitalizing on the government’s potential downfall.
Akpaloo proposed suspending the strike action until after the election, suggesting that solving the problem in haste may not yield lasting results. He questioned the effectiveness of a two-week strike, followed by the government deploying the military, only for illegal miners to return later.
The LPG flagbearer’s stance highlights the complexities surrounding the galamsey issue and its intersection with Ghana’s politics. With elections looming, finding a balanced solution that addresses environmental concerns and labor rights is crucial.
Akpaloo’s comments also underscore the need for careful consideration and dialogue in addressing the issue. Rushing into solutions may not provide the desired outcomes, and a more measured approach might be necessary.
The planned strike has sparked concerns about its potential impact on the economy and the environment. As the debate unfolds, Ghanaian citizens await a resolution that prioritizes both.
In the midst of this controversy, Akpaloo’s cautionary tone serves as a reminder that addressing galamsey requires thoughtful and sustained efforts.
The outcome of Organised Labour’s strike and the government’s response will shape Ghana’s approach to combating illegal mining and its environmental consequences.
