The Member of Parliament (MP) for Akim Oda, Alexander Akwesi Acquah, has strongly criticized remarks made by President John Mahama regarding illegal mining, popularly known as galamsey.

Reacting to the President’s comments, Acquah argued that he does not believe President Mahama is genuinely committed to tackling galamsey, describing his recent statements as merely hypothetical.

He pointed out that while in opposition, President Mahama made several claims suggesting he had knowledge of key individuals behind the illegal mining activities. However, according to the MP, the President has remained silent on those claims since assuming office, raising concerns about his willingness to address the issue.

Acquah further alleged that substantial evidence identifying individuals involved in galamsey has been submitted to the President, but no action has been taken. He suggested that the President’s recent comments are an attempt to create the impression that he is concerned about the problem.

In a more serious accusation, the MP claimed that the President has the power and resources to combat galamsey but has failed to act, alleging that he may be a beneficiary of the illegal activity.

The lawmaker also revealed that he personally petitioned both the Presidency and the Ministry of Local Government, providing what he described as concrete evidence implicating several individuals, including his own Municipal Chief Executive, Solomon Kusi Brako. He lamented that no action has been taken, which he believes has only emboldened those involved.

Acquah concluded by urging the President to demonstrate real commitment by prosecuting individuals against whom credible evidence has been presented, insisting that such action would prove the government’s seriousness in fighting the galamsey menace.