ACCRA — Dr. Cadman Atta Mills, brother of the late President John Atta Mills, has publicly criticized President John Dramani Mahama’s approach to combating galamsey. In a post on his X handle, Mills stated, “I REFUSE TO PAY FOR THE ACCOLADES PRESIDENT MAHAMA AND THE NDC IS RECEIVING FOR THE CEDI’S RECOVERY WITH MY HEALTH OR LIFE,” adding that galamsey, whether legal or not, “is killing us.”
Mills’s comments were a direct response to President Mahama’s recent “meet the press” event at Jubilee House.
During the event, President Mahama addressed the issue of illegal mining, stating that his administration would not declare a state of emergency to fight it. The president argued that a more “careful and sustainable approach” was needed and that existing laws were sufficient to address the problem. He also called for broader consultation, stricter enforcement of mining regulations, and the creation of alternative livelihoods for young people involved in galamsey.
President Mahama’s stance has drawn a mixed response, with some civil society groups and analysts arguing that the current approach lacks the urgency required to tackle the widespread environmental damage caused by illegal mining.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
