- Rev. Prof. Frimpong-Manso blasts institutional failure on illegal mining.
- Urges church leaders to act, not just preach.
- Calls for demonstrations, including wearing red bands.
- Warns of imminent national disaster.
Rev. Professor Paul Frimpong-Manso, former President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council, has raised urgent concerns about the surge in illegal mining activities, known as galamsey, in Ghana. He warns that these activities are causing severe damage to the nation’s water bodies and could pose an existential threat if not addressed promptly.
In an interview on JoyNews’ Upfront on September 5, Rev. Prof. Frimpong-Manso described the situation as a “time bomb” and a “disaster,” declaring that the nation is committing a form of national genocide against both current and future generations. His comments reflect deep anxiety over the long-term environmental and societal impacts of galamsey.
He criticized the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for their failure to address the galamsey crisis effectively. Rev. Prof. Frimpong-Manso questioned why high-profile actions against illegal mining, such as the recent sacking of chiefs and arrests by journalists, are not matched by decisive action from those in positions of authority like the police, the Mining Commission, and local government officials.
Rev. Prof. Paul Frimpong-Manso criticized the complete institutional failure in addressing the illegal mining crisis, stating that mere rhetoric will not suffice without concrete actions. He emphasized that church leaders have a crucial role as the nation’s conscience and must either remain silent and suffer the consequences or actively speak out against the crisis.
He urged fellow church leaders to take a stand and preach the truth, even if it means facing hostility or misunderstanding. Drawing inspiration from figures like Desmond Tutu, who fought against apartheid in South Africa, Rev. Prof. Frimpong-Manso stressed the need for church leaders to address the issue head-on rather than ignoring it.
Rev. Prof. Frimpong-Manso warned that illegal mining has escalated into a severe threat, calling for a more proactive role from church leaders beyond merely preaching. He highlighted the destructive impact on the nation and emphasized the urgency of the situation.
He further urged church leaders to take visible action, suggesting they wear red bands and participate in demonstrations, including potentially at the Jubilee House, to draw attention to the crisis. His call to action reflects his belief that urgent and unified efforts are needed to address the looming national disaster.
