A protester participating in the ongoing anti-galamsey (illegal mining) demonstration in Accra has publicly accused some of his former comrades of abandoning the cause after using it for personal and political gain.
Speaking to MyNewsGh on the sidelines of the protest, Kamen Abubakar Sadiq, a member of the advocacy group Democracy Hub, expressed deep frustration over what he described as opportunism and betrayal by individuals who had previously joined the movement.
"Some of those who marched with us last year did so not out of commitment to the cause, but for selfish reasons," Sadiq said emotionally. "They were never truly dedicated. Now that they have achieved their political or personal ambitions, they are nowhere to be found."
Sadiq, who identified himself during the interview as “Executioner,” criticized the silence of former activists who were once outspoken. He alleged that many distanced themselves once they received the recognition or political leverage they sought.
“No matter how they disguise it, they were after political affiliations and rewards,” he added. “Now that they’ve gotten what they wanted, where are they? They sold out the cause. They are disgraced.”
Recalling the events of the previous year, Sadiq mentioned that 53 individuals were arrested during a similar protest. “Even if one among us has had mental health issues since then, what about the remaining 52? Two of the women arrested have since given birth. So where are the other 50?”
He condemned those who have withdrawn their support without justification, saying, “The land will judge them. The spirits of our ancestors will judge them. There is no reason they should not be standing with us.”
Sadiq emphasized that the movement is rooted in the protection of human rights and environmental integrity. “Everything we’re doing is for the sake of humanity. If what you're doing in life is not for humanity, then why are you doing it? We are here for the people.”
The ongoing protests are part of a growing nationwide outcry against illegal mining, which has caused significant environmental degradation across Ghana. Activists are calling for stronger enforcement of anti-galamsey laws and more accountability from public officials.
Source: MyNewsGh.com
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