Galamsey Crisis: Old Vandals threaten mass protest, issues gov't 2-week ultimatum

Accra, Ghana - October 8, 2024 - The Old Vandals' Association of North America (OVANA), a group of University of Ghana alumni, has expressed outrage over the government's handling of the galamsey crisis.

In a strongly worded statement released on October 7, 2024,  OVANA demanded swift action to address the environmental devastation caused by illegal mining.

Frontcourt of the Commonwealth Hall at the University of Ghana

The association highlighted the dire consequences of illegal mining, including polluted rivers, destroyed farmlands, and long-term health risks. OVANA called for:

- A state of emergency declaration
- Immediate ban on galamsey activities until a transparent regulatory framework is established
- Repeal of Legislative Instrument 2462
- Comprehensive review of mining laws to align with global environmental standards
- Release of demonstrators arrested for protesting galamsey

“Our rivers are polluted, farmlands destroyed, and communities left vulnerable to long-term health hazards,” the statement read.

“We demand that no citizen is harassed or detained for standing up to protect the environment. Peaceful protests are a constitutional right,” the release stated.

“Failure to do so will leave us with no choice but to mobilize students from all levels of education—primary, secondary, and tertiary—to stage a massive nationwide demonstration,” they warned, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

“The future of our nation depends on strong leadership that will decisively combat galamsey,” the statement urged.

OVANA issued a two-week ultimatum to the government, threatening nationwide student protests if their demands are ignored. 

Source: Lead News Online