The Ghana Coalition Against Galamsey has formally requested President John Dramani Mahama to take firm measures in response to allegations of illegal mining involving Oscar Larbi, the Member of Parliament for Aowin.
In a letter dated January 30, the coalition, which comprises media representatives, labor organizations, faith-based groups, and traditional leaders, conveyed its concerns to the Jubilee House, emphasizing the urgent need for intervention in this matter.
The allegations pertain to the Tano Anwia Forest Reserve located in the Aowin Municipality of the Western North Region, which has reportedly suffered from illegal mining operations.
Traditional authorities in the region have accused Oscar Larbi of facilitating the entry of illegal miners, whose activities are described as harmful and damaging to the environment.
The coalition asserts that these operations have led to significant environmental harm, including the destruction of plant life and considerable deforestation.
In its appeal to President Mahama, the Coalition is calling for an independent investigation involving key agencies such as the Ghana Police Service, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Minerals Commission to ascertain the facts and hold accountable any individuals or organizations implicated in the environmental damage.
Furthermore, it demands immediate action against any Member of Parliament or government official found to be engaged in illegal mining activities.
The Coalition has also reached out to the Speaker of Parliament and the Inspector General of Police regarding this issue, underscoring the importance of addressing these allegations to uphold public confidence in the government’s dedication to combating galamsey.
