The Commissioner of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), Joseph Whittal, has voiced his disappointment in the government’s failure to effectively tackle the illegal mining crisis, commonly known as ‘galamsey.’
Mr. Whittal specifically criticized President Nana Akufo-Addo for not fulfilling his promise to combat the issue, which continues to wreak environmental and health havoc across Ghana.
“The Commission is deeply disappointed in the fight against galamsey and artisanal mining. It’s disheartening that even the President, who promised to put his presidency on the line, has failed to deliver. Presidents don’t promise and then fall short,” Mr. Whittal remarked in an interview with BBC News’ Komla Adom.
The CHRAJ Commissioner joined the growing calls for a state of emergency to be declared over the galamsey crisis, citing severe water pollution and related health risks. He noted the rising cases of stillbirths, congenital defects, and kidney illnesses in areas affected by illegal mining activities.
“I support the call for a state of emergency. The pollution’s effects are already catastrophic, and yet the government appears unconcerned. It’s difficult to understand this neglect,” Mr. Whittal added.
His comments follow heightened public frustration over the government’s handling of galamsey, particularly after the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) in the Central Region warned of looming water shortages in Cape Coast and Elmina due to mining-induced pollution. The issue was further highlighted by a recent JoyNews documentary, Poisoned Rivers, which detailed the devastation of Ghana’s water bodies.
Mr. Whittal emphasized that President Akufo-Addo, as the elected leader, has a duty to act decisively to protect the people and the environment. “The government and the President, who has strong human rights credentials, owe it to Ghanaians to address this crisis before it’s too late,” he said.
Civil society organizations, environmental groups, and concerned citizens continue to urge the government to take immediate action, as illegal mining threatens water sources, farmlands, and livelihoods across the country.
Source: InsiderGH.com
