The President of the National House of Chiefs, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II, has issued a strong call to national security agencies to take firm action against politicians and traditional rulers who are involved in illegal mining—known locally as galamsey. He emphasized that efforts to combat the worsening environmental crisis will remain ineffective unless those in power who enable or protect these operations are held accountable.
Speaking during a meeting with the National Security Coordinator on Friday, August 1, 2025, Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II revealed that many illegal miners claim to operate under the protection of influential political figures.
“When these illegal miners are arrested, they often say, ‘we’re from Jubilee House,’” he noted. “We all need to be part of the fight against galamsey and the destruction of our water bodies.”
He pointed out that the issue spans multiple administrations, stressing the need for a unified national approach.
“This didn’t begin today—it started under previous governments and has persisted under the current one,” he said. “We need to hold offenders accountable to send a strong and clear message.”
The President also criticized the involvement of some chiefs in galamsey operations. He urged traditional leaders to uphold their responsibility to protect the land and set a positive example.
“Some of our own chiefs are complicit. That must end. We cannot claim to safeguard our lands and rivers while enabling their destruction,” he stated.
Ogyeahoho Yaw Gyebi II’s remarks come amid rising concern over the environmental damage caused by illegal mining and growing calls for stricter enforcement and accountability from both political leaders and traditional authorities.
Source: The Ghana Report
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