Thomas Ayertey calls for chiefs to lead the fight against illegal mining

Thomas Ayertey, a member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Ayensuano Constituency, has called on traditional leaders to take a more active role in the fight against illegal mining (galamsey), arguing that chiefs have both a constitutional and legal responsibility to protect stool lands from environmental destruction.

Speaking on Plan B FM’s Ebaanosen with host Ohene Kinnah, Ayertey cited Article 267 of the 1992 Constitution, the Land Act, 2020 (Act 1036), and the Chieftaincy Act, 2008 (Act 759), explaining that chiefs are custodians and trustees of stool lands, not absolute owners. He said this places a clear obligation on traditional authorities to prevent illegal mining activities on lands under their jurisdiction.

According to him, governments alone cannot win the battle against galamsey if chiefs fail to exercise their authority. He noted that many illegal mining operations take place on lands controlled by traditional authorities, making their cooperation crucial to ending the menace.

Ayertey further stressed that the fight against illegal mining is a shared national responsibility involving chiefs, government, security agencies, the media, politicians, and ordinary citizens. He urged all stakeholders to support government efforts instead of shifting blame, insisting that only a united front can protect the country’s land, forests, and water bodies.

He also warned that anyone found aiding, facilitating, or benefiting from illegal mining should be exposed and held accountable, regardless of their status. While acknowledging calls for tougher measures, including the declaration of a state of emergency, he maintained that lasting success would depend on the collective commitment of traditional authorities, government, law enforcement agencies, the media, and the public.

Ayertey expressed confidence in the government’s determination to tackle illegal mining but emphasized that the fight cannot be won through presidential directives alone. He urged chiefs to stop allowing illegal mining on lands under their authority and encouraged citizens to report offenders, insisting that only a coordinated national effort can permanently eradicate galamsey and safeguard Ghana’s natural resources for future generations.

By: Ernest Kumi