The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has called on the government to immediately start the prosecution of individuals arrested for illegal mining activities, commonly known as galamsey.
In a statement, UTAG stressed the need for swift and decisive action to deter others from engaging in illegal mining.
“While the efforts made by the government so far are commendable, a lot more sustained and strategic interventions are needed to yield the desired impact Ghanaians expect. The establishment of more designated courts to expedite the prosecution of illegal miners, as contained in the government’s roadmap, is yet to be seen.
“Similarly, the signing of a national pact by Presidential Candidates of political parties in support of the fight against illegal mining (galamsey) in Ghana as per the government’s roadmap is also yet to be realised,” portions of the statement.
The statement comes in the wake of calls by a pro-UTAG group ‘Silent Majority’ for the association to rescind its decision on an ongoing strike action in the fight against galamsey.
The group, comprising 57 individuals has given the national leadership a three day ultimatum which elapse on Friday, October 18, 2024.
However, UTAG has said the strike will continue until next week when the next line of action will be decided.
Commending efforts put in place by government UTAG has proposed further decisive actions.
“We urge the government to take further decisive actions, including 1. Expanding the task force’s mandate to include forest reserves and farmlands would ensure a comprehensive approach to stopping the destruction, especially by illegal mining activities.
“Expediting parliamentary revocation of the L.I. 2462 to curb mining in forest reserves. 3. Commencing immediate prosecution of individuals arrested for engaging in illegal mining activities. 4. Engaging with UTAG to discuss proposals on how to fight illegal mining while promoting responsible and sustainable mining for inclusive development,” UTAG stated.
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